How to teach your child to throw a baseball (overhand) - Fun Activities for Kids
Throwing a baseball develops coordination of arms and torso, fine motor control, and the ability to “read” distances. These skills transfer to sports and activities that involve throwing an object accurately over a perceived distance (e.g., balls, frisbees, ribbons, sticks, batons).
Requirements:
Open outdoor space
Regulation baseball or children’s softball (10 inch and 11 inch)
Standard leather baseball gloves
Instructions:
1. In an open area without obstructions, throw gently overhand and play catch with your child.
2. Start with short distances such as 3-5 metres apart.
3. Increase to longer distances of 8-10 metres as your child’s catching improves.
4. Show your child how to stand ready, with glove in the air, feet slightly apart, and ready to move side-to-side to catch.
Variations:
Increase the speed and force of your throws only as your child gains confidence and consistency in catching
Try using an object as a “home plate” (e.g. jacket, sweater, piece of cardboard or wood) – stand behind it and encourage your child to “pitch” accurately to you from 10-12 metres away
Find more activity ideas for kids to do at home or school at activeforlife.com/activities.