Ball play – Toddler

Repeated ball play with your toddler will give them time to practice their skills, share their successes with you and further develop their sense of pride.

Did you know?

Learning to kick a ball also helps your toddler’s balance.

Add language

Simple phrases such as “1, 2, 3, kick” help your child to get ready and plan their movement, as well as giving lots of repetition to learn this number word sequence.

Other development

Toddlers first ‘walk into a ball’ when attempting to kick. As their balance improves they are able to lift one leg to kick the ball forward. Try a big, light ball and lots of encouragement!

Variations

There are lots of ball games suitable for boys and girls of this age. Placing balls into the washing basket and simple ten pin bowling or skittles with recycled plastic drink bottles for skittles or pins are fun starters.

Using different balls can add a sensory experience to ball play e.g. spiky balls, squishy balls, or balls with bells inside.

Across the ages

All the activities listed on our “Play Ideas” page can be applied across different age groups. See how ball play can be fun for babies, children and playgroups.

Activities listed under “toddler” are suitable for children aged 1-3 years. Toddlers enjoy activities that include exploring their environment and finding out how things work.