Move & balance

Roll to the wall

Roll a large soft ball towards a wall and chase its return.

10 minutes

What you'll need

One-piece soft ball labelled suitable for children under 3 · Clear wall and floor

Before you start

Can move independently in their usual way

Best fit: either · active energy · medium caregiver effort · low mess

How to play

  1. Sit or stand near the wall.
  2. Roll the ball gently.
  3. Follow it together and try again.
Make it easier

Sit close and use two hands.

Standard

Roll a large soft ball towards a wall and chase its return.

Extend it

Aim between two wide markers.

What you might notice

Aiming, force and anticipation of the rebound.

Keep it safe

Use an intact under-3 one-piece ball with no removable valve or foam. Choose a clear dry level floor and blank wall away from glass and stairs; stay within arm's reach, stop throwing or mouthing, and store the ball.

Why it may be useful

This adds a short burst of active play with room to practise balance, coordination and whole-body movement.

practice guidance

General movement guidance for healthy children; adapt for individual abilities and environments.

Truelove et al. (2017) — Defining and Measuring Active Play Among Young Children: A Systematic Review

Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing (2026) — Recommendations for infants, toddlers and preschoolers (birth to 5 years)

Raising Children Network (2025) — Toddler play: ideas, games and activities

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