Ball games to play with your toddler

Roll a ball and get your wee one to pass it back to you. You can tire out them out even more by asking them to run or crawl to collect it.

Use everyday items like cardboard tubes to make goal posts. See how many times the pair of you can score by rolling a ball, or even batting it with a wooden spoon. Running backwards and forwards to collect the ball will tire them out even more.

Line up plastic cups, card tubes or another everyday item on the floor and get your little one to knock them over with a ball… strike! A fun game for both of you.

Hide behind a ball and play peek-a-boo! Why not pass the ball to your toddler and see if they try to hide behind it too? It’s a sure fire way to start the giggles and brilliant fun for both of you.

This game couldn’t be simpler – you just need a basket or plastic tub and some scrunched up paper balls. Take it in turns to see if you can get a slam-dunk! Get them to collect the balls to tire them out.

Hide the ball and give your little one clues of where to find it. Say ‘hot’ if they get closer to it, or ‘cold’ if they go move further away. Make sure you hide the ball somewhere they can see it and reach it.

Cut a big hole in some cardboard and hold it up. Get your little one to throw a ball and see if they can get it to go through the hole – but don’t make the hole too small. You could even play this game with their favourite teddy. If it’s too easy for them, start sitting a little further away.

Using a waterproof ball, or empty baby shampoo bottle and sponge, see if your little one can get them to sink or float in the bath as part of their bedtime routine. Working out which ones float and which sink will keep little brains busy.

Indoor golf is easier than you might think – scrunch up some paper for a ball and use a cardboard tube for your club. Then all you’ll need is something to aim for – like a basin or an empty box. Try putting different objects at different distances.

If you’re not keen on the idea of chucking a ball around indoors, how about blowing up a biodegradable balloon and using that instead? You can set up a volleyball ‘net’ by tying a piece of string across the room, then see how long you can keep passing the balloon over it, batting it with your hands. If it gets too easy, try using only one hand, or standing on one leg.

Ever played beer pong? Now try the child-friendly alternative! Set up some cups in a triangle shape and then write out some forfeits – like ‘stand on one leg’, ‘jump like a frog’ or ‘wriggle like a worm’ – and put one forfeit at the bottom of each cup. Each player has to throw a small ball or screwed up piece of paper into the cups – if they succeed, the next player 

Whatever game you play, why not crown your tot a champion with a home made trophy or medal? It’s really easy to make one – you just need some card and tinfoil. You could even use it as a reward for when they’ve eaten all their dinner or got themselves ready in the morning. It’s totally up to you.