The Cardboard Tube Ball Lift

Ages:: Preschoolers (3 to 5), School age (6+)
Play time:: 10 to 15 minutes
Setup:: None
Where:: Floor

Why it helps

This activity helps your child work on using both sides of their body at the same time. By holding a long paper roll in each hand, they must coordinate their movements. They will squeeze and lift a ball together. This builds strength in the hands and shoulders. It also encourages focus as they try to keep the ball from falling. Moving the ball to a target helps with spatial awareness. It is a fun way to turn simple household items into a challenge!

Steps

Place a tennis ball on a flat floor or rug.
Give your child two long cardboard paper towel rolls.
Ask your child to hold one roll in each hand.
Challenge them to squeeze the ball between the ends of the paper rolls.
Once they have a firm grip, lift the ball off the ground.
Ask them to walk slowly toward a basket a few feet away.
Carefully release the ball into the basket without using their hands.
Repeat the challenge with balls of different sizes!

Safety tip: Always supervise your child during this activity to prevent them from tripping. Ensure the floor is clear of other toys.

Make it easier

Use a soft foam ball or a small beach ball, which is easier to trap between the tubes.
Use short toilet paper rolls, which are easier to control than long tubes.
Put the basket right next to the ball so your child only has to lift and drop.

Make it harder

Carry the ball along a tape line on the floor or over a pillow on the way to the basket.
Use a smaller ball, like a ping pong ball, which needs a gentler and more exact squeeze.
Set the basket on a chair so your child has to lift the ball up high before letting go.

What to watch for

Notice whether both arms press in evenly. If one arm pushes harder, the ball tends to pop out toward the other side.
Watch your child's arms during the walk. Holding the elbows steady takes shoulder strength, and the arms may drift down as they tire.
Notice how much squeeze your child uses. Too much crushes the tube ends, and too little lets the ball drop.

Where this helps in daily life

Holding something between two hands with even pressure is the same skill kids use to carry a big box, a lunch tray, or a laundry basket, and to catch a ball with both hands.

These activities are for home practice and don't replace the guidance of a licensed therapist.