Have a Ball

 

All ages and all abilities are ready to break out of the winter doldrums and get outside to release their pent-up energy. What better way than bouncing, dribbling, throwing, catching and kicking! Ball play hits all the body muscles that have been in hibernation all winter. There are enough types of balls to keep everybody busy, active and having fun. Look at your interests, abilities and space to determine what’s right. Here are a few to get the ball rolling.

Oball by Kids II is the perfect introduction to ball play. Lightweight, interconnected rings are made of thin plastic that’s easy to grasp as kids learn how their hands move to hold, transfer, throw and catch.

If basketball is the game for you, check out Fisher-Price Grow 2 Pro Jr.Basketball. Ingeniously designed, expandable rim lets kids get nothin’ but net right from the get-go. Challenge their skill by reducing the diameter for the dunk shot.

 

If bowling is more your speed, Little Tikes Clearly Sports Bowling is a clear choice. Backyard sidewalks make the perfect alley – the grass keeps the ball in the lane and prevents gutter balls. Transparent pins have several tumbling balls inside to make the sounds of a strike that much more striking.

 

This article was written by Ellen Metrick, Director of Industry Relations & Partnerships for the National Lekotek Center. Lekotek is a not-for-profit and leading authority on toys and play for children with disabilities. Lekotek is dedicated to providing children of all abilities access to the benefits of play experiences. Visit AblePlay.org for a complete listing of toys for children with special needs and follow us on Facebook!

 

Source: parenting special needs magazine, June/July 2013 http://issuu.com/nationallekotek/docs/mayjune2014/10