Shrink and Grow (Throwing)

Shrink and Grow is a fun game that allows children to develop their throwing and catching skills within their comfort zone, or can allow for children to push their abilities and challenge themselves!

shrink and grow set up image
Set up

Set up markers (you can use shoes, chalk dots, balled up socks) in a straight line, equally spaced. Distance between markers should be ~1 metre apart, altering this to suit your child's abilities. Play this game as partners - provide one ball between two.

How to play
Step 1:

  • One child stands on the end marker, with the other child (or you) standing on the next marker along, facing one each other

  • The children attempt to throw the ball between them
Step 2:
  • If it is caught, the child takes a step back onto the next marker
  • If it is dropped, the child takes a step towards their partner
Step 3:
  • See how far away you can successfully throw and catch!
Variations
Make it easier
  • Use a large, soft ball
  • Roll the ball along the ground - if the child is able to trap it, take a step backwards
  • Use buckets to help with catching
Make it harder
  • Use small tennis or bouncy balls
  • Increase the distance between markers
  • Catch with just one hand!
Activity information
Age: Kindergarten, Pre-Primary, Year 1, Year 2, Year 3
Equipment: Balls, Markers (optional)
Duration: 10 minutes
Skill focus
Explore these skills for teaching tips
Catching Overarm Throw Underarm Throw
Skill teaching

Remind children how to safely catch;

  1. Eyes on the ball
  2. Soft fingers
  3. Butterfly hands: thumbs together and fingers pointing up for balls being caught above the waist
  4. Wriggly worms: fingers pointing down for balls being caught below the waist
  5. Move hands to the ball
Activity summary
Physical literacy tips
  • Adults/older siblings join in!