Juggling [2]
Short description | Promotion of manual dexterity | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Category | |||
Group size | SOLO PAIRS SMALL GROUPS CLASS | ||
Materials | Juggling balls, other objects for juggling | ||
Duration | 5-10 minutes | Level | 2️⃣ |
Goal of this exercise is to improve
hand-eye coordination
dexterity
Perception
Crossing movements activate the brain and stimulate communication between hemispheres. Such exercises require a lot of concentration and attention.
Instructions
This exercise involves juggling cross-over moves. Start with simpler exercises, which then become increasingly difficult.
Throw a ball up at an angle, crossing your hands and catching it with the same hand. Repeat 5 times, then switch hands
Throw a ball straight up, cross your hands and catch with the other hand. Repeat 5 times, then change hands
Throw two balls straight up, cross your hands and catch each ball with the other hand. Return to normal starting position and repeat at least 10 times.
Hands crossed, throw two balls straight up and catch with hands in normal position. Return to normal starting position and repeat at least 10 times.
Hands in normal position, throw 2 balls up and catch in a crossed position, then throw balls straight up again and catch back to normal position, repeat at least 10 times.
A prerequisite for successfully performing this exercise is that the balls are thrown sensibly upwards. If children have a problem with this task, it is helpful to imagine them doing the two activities sequentially (rather than simultaneously), i.e. throwing first and then crossing. You can also practise throwing first and then crossing and only then combine the two.
Variations
Throw the balls higher or lower.
Step left or right while juggling.
Also juggle with other objects (cloths, balls of paper...).
Tips
This exercise is usually a lot of fun. By crossing your hands you should also cross your motor programs. The two halves of the brain need to communicate more with each other, which is not always possible. Many children need some time and patience for this, so it doesn't matter if it doesn't work right away.
The better you do it, the fewer pauses you need between repetitions. Who can do it the fastest?
Background information for further reading
Controlled and automated processes