Throwing

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.

Building blocks for throwing

Learning to reach, grasp and let go of objects

Simple throwing

Releasing an object with timing and force

Advanced throwing

Learning to step, twist the body and throw cross laterally, in a particular direction

Toddlers

  • Throw a ball. Direction is random. It may be a two handed throw. (Ball is above the head & there is no turn of the body yet so it looks uncoordinated)

  • Throw a ball into a box

  • Throw a small ball overarm. Still no ability to twist the body so still looks quite awkward.

Activities

See what activities can help to support this core skill.

See Activities