The skills needed for throwing first appear in infancy when babies learn to release an object (e.g. a spoon whilst in their highchair). Using improved hand-eye coordination and shoulder girdle strength, this progresses to eventually propelling objects further and with increased accuracy. Keep reading to find out how the skills for throwing emerge (and at approximately what age), and the games you could play to encourage skill development.
Learning to reach, grasp and let go of objects
Releasing an object with timing and force
Learning to step, twist the body and throw cross laterally, in a particular direction
Preschoolers
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Throw a ball - stepping forward with the foot on the opposite side to the throwing arm (Cross laterally)
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Throw a ball at a target. As skill progresses, throw a ball to hit a target 2-3 metres away.
Activities
See what activities can help to support this core skill.