We don’t normally see fully developed catching skills until the ages of 6-9 years. Children need a lot of opportunities to attempt to catch as they learn to track the trajectory of a ball
Bouncing the ball while standing still is one of the earliest object control skills to be mastered, however it is much harder to bounce the ball while walking or running.
Dribbling the ball requires controlling the ball while moving with it. This skill can be introduced in Kindergarten as it will help children develop their ball tracking skills.
Hopping is a more advanced skill than jumping as it requires balance and strength. Hopping is a good indicator of being able to maintain balance while moving.
Most children will not instinctively know how to throw overarm efficiently. Throwing should be introduced towards the end of Kindergarten or in Pre-Primary.
The ability to run is the key to many sports and everyday activities. It is essential that children are taught the correct technique for running and provided with opportunities to practice.
A form of striking is used in many sports; tennis, teeball, cricket, hockey and golf. Although they all differ, the same mechanical principles apply across all of them.
