Ball catching practice
2–3 yearsSuccess MindsetMaterials: Soft ball (foam, beach ball, or stuffed ball)
Practice catching a soft, medium-sized ball together. Stand close at first, just a few feet apart. Toss the ball gently to your child. They'll miss most of the time, and that's expected. Each time, retrieve the ball together and try again. You might count how many tosses you do together rather than how many they catch. This shifts focus to sustained effort rather than immediate success.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Practice catching a soft, medium-sized ball together. Stand close at first, just a few feet apart. Toss the ball gently to your child. They'll miss most of the time, and that's expected. Each time, retrieve the ball together and try again. You might count how many tosses you do together rather than how many they catch. This shifts focus to sustained effort rather than immediate success.
Why It Works
Physical skill development through repeated practice embodies the perseverance component of grit. Research indicates that gritty behaviors include continued practice of difficult skills despite initial failure (Lam & Zhou, 2019). When children practice catching and missing repeatedly, they learn that improvement comes through sustained effort over time, not immediate mastery.
Tips for Parents
Use a soft ball that won't hurt or scare them if it hits them.
Focus on the trying: 'We've practiced 10 times. Let's try 10 more.'
Take turns so they also practice throwing to you, which is usually easier and keeps them engaged.
Materials Needed
Soft ball (foam, beach ball, or stuffed ball)
Learning Methods
Interactive Play-Based LearningHands-On Sensory Activities
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