The Georgia Early Learning Standards Activity Guides may - gapitc

Gross motor skills
Activities and Strategies
for Development
Target Practice
Place a large box or laundry basket on its side in an open space outdoors. Put
something sturdy behind the “target” to keep it from falling over.
Place a few medium-sized balls nearby, and gently kick one of them to show the
children how to kick the ball at the target.
Encourage the children to do the same.
Later, set the basket upright and let the children try to throw smaller balls into it.
Step back and watch the children enjoy kicking, throwing, and laughing, even if
they do not hit the “target!”
Feet-to-Feet
Gather several medium-sized balls.
Special Needs Tips
Help a child with limited leg mobility sit on the ground and roll
the ball toward the target. A child in a wheelchair can throw the
ball or “bowl” it from the chair.
Invite pairs of children to sit on the ground “feet-to-feet” with their legs
spread apart.
Give a ball to each pair and show them how to roll it back and forth gently.
Have the children move apart a short distance and roll the ball back and
forth again.
Repeat several more times, increasing the distance between them.
See how far apart they can sit and still be able to roll and catch the ball.
When the children are ready for a challenge, show them how to bounce the
ball gently and see if their partner can catch it. Have them stay seated on the
ground when they try this.
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