Let's Play Catch
Parent plays a simple catching game with their toddler, observing catching skills and balance maintenance. The agent coaches the parent to notice how the child coordinates arms to catch a ball while staying steady on their feet — building gross motor coordination and body control.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Open space with non-slip flooring. Parent and child standing facing each other, about 3-4 feet apart. Soft ball (8-10 inches diameter) in parent's hands. No stickers needed for this adapted version.
How it works
- 1~30s
Start by showing your child the ball and saying 'Let's play catch!' Gently toss the ball underhand so it arcs right into their waiting arms. Watch carefully — does your child bring their arms together to catch it, or does the ball bounce off? Notice if they stays steady on their feet or stumbles when catching. Tell me what you see.
Watch for: Child coordinates arms to catch a ball while maintaining balance.
- 2~35s
Now let's focus on balance. Ask your child to stand with feet shoulder-width apart — you can demonstrate this. Toss the ball again, but this time watch their feet specifically. Does they keep their feet planted, or does they need to take a step to catch it? Some children will naturally adjust their stance to stay balanced. What do you notice about your child's footwork?
Watch for: Child maintains or adjusts foot position to stay balanced while catching.
- 3~40s
Now let your child try throwing back to you. Encourage an overhand throw — you can demonstrate by bringing your arm back and throwing forward. Step back a few feet to give them space. Watch their throwing motion: does they bring their arm back and forward with some force? Does the ball travel toward you rather than straight up or down? We're looking for that forward arm motion.
Watch for: Child throws ball overhand with forward motion, sending it several feet toward a target.