Ball throw and retrieve
1–2 yearsSuccess MindsetMaterials: Soft ball
Basket or box
Give your child a soft ball and show them a target like a basket or box. Encourage them to throw the ball toward the target. Most throws will miss at this age. Each time, let them walk to get the ball and try again. You might say 'get the ball' and 'try again.' Continue for several minutes. The repetitive nature builds persistence as they practice the same action over and over.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Give your child a soft ball and show them a target like a basket or box. Encourage them to throw the ball toward the target. Most throws will miss at this age. Each time, let them walk to get the ball and try again. You might say 'get the ball' and 'try again.' Continue for several minutes. The repetitive nature builds persistence as they practice the same action over and over.
Why It Works
Repetitive physical practice builds both motor skills and perseverance of effort. Research demonstrates that perseverance of effort shows stronger correlations with achievement than consistency of interest across multiple studies (Duckworth et al., 2007). This activity capitalizes on toddlers' natural drive to master physical skills while creating numerous opportunities to persist despite missing the target. The concrete cause-and-effect nature matches their cognitive capabilities.
Tips for Parents
Keep the target close at first, around three to four feet away. Success is not required. The goal is practicing the effort of repeated attempts.
If they lose interest, you can take turns throwing. Your participation often renews their engagement.
Materials Needed
Soft ball
Basket or box
Learning Methods
Hands-On ExplorationMontessori Practical Life Activities
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