Pom-Pom Popper Target Game

Ages:: Preschoolers (3 to 5), School age (6+)
Play time:: 10 to 15 minutes
Setup:: 5 minutes
Where:: Anywhere

Why it helps

This fun launching game helps your child practice using both hands together (bilateral coordination) while strengthening their shoulder muscles and improving their aiming skills (visual motor coordination).

Steps

Before play, cut the bottom off the paper cup with scissors. This is an adult step.
Tie a knot in the neck of an empty balloon, then snip off the round top end, about half an inch. Throw the cut-off piece away right away.
Stretch the cut edge of the balloon over the bottom of the cup so the knot sits in the middle at the back. Wrap masking tape around the edge to hold it in place.
Set the bucket about five feet away as the target.
Show your child how to drop a pom-pom into the open top of the cup so it rests on the balloon.
Ask your child to hold the cup tilted up toward the bucket with one hand, pull the knot back with the other, and let go to launch the pom-pom.
Count how many pom-poms land in the bucket, then gather them up and play again.

Safety tip: Pick up any balloon pieces right away, since broken balloons are a choking risk, and skip this if anyone has a latex allergy. Aim only at the bucket, never at faces, people, or pets.

Make it easier

Move the bucket closer, about two steps away, or use a laundry basket for a bigger target.
Hold the cup steady for your child so they only have to pull and let go of the knot.
Rest the cup on a pillow or the edge of a table so it stays aimed while your child pulls.

Make it harder

Set out two or three targets at different distances and call out which one to aim for.
Try a short pull for the near target and a long pull for the far one, and talk about the difference.
Aim at a target placed up high, like a box on the couch.

What to watch for

Notice whether the cup stays pointed at the target while your child pulls back, or tips as the other hand pulls.
Watch how far your child pulls the knot each time, and whether they change it after a shot falls short or flies past.
If the snap of the balloon startles your child, start with gentle pulls, or let them watch you launch a few first.

Where this helps in daily life

Holding one thing still while the other hand pulls is the same teamwork kids use to open a snack bag, pull a zipper while holding the jacket, and stretch a hair tie around a ponytail.

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