By Heart Research UK
Ball games are fun at any age, and a great way to get our hearts pumping.
Here we explore some games you can enjoy with the little ones in your life, whether they are babies, toddlers or pre-schoolers.
Don’t forget to praise their efforts and show them that you enjoy the games you play together, too.
Babies
Even babies can enjoy playing with a ball. When a baby can hold up their head while lying on their tummy, encourage them to reach for the ball, by placing it just out of reach.
This will encourage them to explore their surroundings, reach and grab.
Toddlers
Encourage your child to throw, kick and roll the ball to you. Make this easier at first by sitting or standing close to each other.
Practice makes perfect – don’t expect your little one to catch straight away.
You could even use a cardboard box or washing basket as a goal.
Pre-schoolers
Show your child how to use their hand as a bat.
Bowl the ball to them and encourage them to hit it. As your little one improves; change the rules so that they must run from one base to another after a hit.
The next step is rounders or cricket.
For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at www.heartresearch.org.uk/healthy-tips.
To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our website: https://heartresearch.org.uk/heart-research-uk-recipes-2/.
Or have a look through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and food bloggers: https://heartresearch.org.uk/heart-research-uk-cookbook/.
