Teach a Child to Throw, Catch and Hit a Ball

Playing catch is simple, and quite fun. All you need is a ball, and some time. Small children often need some help getting started, not least because they always turn their heads the other way to prevent getting hit in the face. Here is how to teach a child to catch, throw, and hit a ball.

Steps

  1. Use a balloon to teach him to catch. Balloons are safe, don't hurt, and will help your child overcome any fears. Throw balloons at him and ask him to catch them. Once he masters that, start throwing the balloon at angles/ Then move on to a foam ball, and then to a tennis ball. Before you know it, you've got a "play catch" partner! If this takes time, don't worry! Be positive and practice a lot.
  2. Teach him to throw. Use a soft ball so that nobody gets hurt. Tell him to:
    1. Hold it in his better hand, and bring the opposite foot forward.
    2. Bring the ball behind his ear, and bend his elbow pointing backwards.
    3. Turn so that the side opposite to the throwing hand faces the target. This means that if he is throwing with his right hand, the target should be to his left. A common mistake is to stand with your chest facing the target. Avoid this.
    4. Use the non-throwing hand to point at the target and throw. The ball may not go anywhere near the target, so be prepared to repeat and refine.
  3. Use a big ball to teach hitting. Give him a plastic bat suitable for his size. Start with using a beach ball and move on to smaller balls. Once he is comfortable with a tennis ball, move on to a regular bat.


  This video from DadLabs shows you how to play catch with your child, see how you can get started.

Tips

  • Demonstrate, rather than verbally instruct.
  • Bald criticism will detract the child. Learn to Give-a-Feedback-Sandwich criticism and advice between praise.
  • Quit practising while the child is still having fun. Do not wait until the child is bored or tired.

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