Ball in the basket

Materials You Need: One softball, but rolled-up socks can also be used; a large box or a washbasin, or a large basket.  

What You Can Do Together: Place the box or basket in the room and position yourself at a short distance from it. In order to attract your child's attention, you can be the first to throw the ball in the basket and accompany this with happy cheers.  Stand close and make it easy.  When he/she gets interested, let him/her try it him- herself. For some children during this period, the expectation to throw the ball into the basket can be too demanding. Even if they aren't successful in throwing into the basket, the value and enjoyment of this activity is in practicing the throwing movement. Reward each attempt with praise, a smile, applause, and encouragement. Try to take turns throwing (you can say "Now it's my turn!  Now it's your turn!" and other language such as "That was a big throw!" or "Oh, the ball went onto the couch; let's get it!") and cheer for every attempt regardless of success. 

What Your Child is Learning:  Your child develops gross motor skills and movement coordination by imitating your actions. A child also learns the concept ‘my turn’ by playing with you.