Parent tip
Start before you overthink it. No-prep activities work best when you begin while the moment is still recoverable.
Soft Ball Kick-About
Kick a soft ball back and forth for early coordination and big-body movement.
Activity details
Instructions
- Place a soft, lightweight ball on the ground
- Demonstrate a gentle kick: ‘Watch — I kick the ball!’
- Roll the ball to your child’s feet and encourage them to kick
- Chase the ball together after each kick
- Kick it back and forth between you
- Celebrate every attempt, even if they miss: ‘Great try!’
- Set up cushion goals for target practice
- Try outside on grass where there’s more space to chase
What success looks like
Flushed cheeks, big smiles, and a calmer child afterwards. If they want to do it again, you’ve found a winner.
Place a lightweight ball on the ground and show your toddler how to kick it. At 12–24 months, kicking is a brand-new skill that requires standing on one leg momentarily — a significant balance challenge for early walkers. Don’t expect accuracy; the joy is in the attempt, the chase, and the satisfying feeling of their foot connecting with the ball. This works indoors with a soft ball or outside on grass.
Why it helps
NHS Best Start in Life recommends practising throwing, catching and kicking a ball as simple activities that teach coordination, balance and agility. Kicking a ball requires momentary single-leg balance, which challenges and develops the vestibular and proprioceptive systems. It builds leg strength in a different pattern from walking — a swinging motion rather than a stepping one — and the turn-taking involved plants the seeds of early social skills.
Variations
- Use a balloon instead for slower movement that’s easier to track.
- Set up two cushions as a ‘goal’ and take turns kicking towards it.
- Try kicking while holding a parent’s hand for extra balance support.
Safety tips
- Use a soft, lightweight ball that won’t hurt feet or furniture.
- Play in a clear space away from breakable items.
- On hard floors, ensure your child is wearing non-slip socks or soft shoes.
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