Kids get bored throwing at one target. Three targets at different distances keep their interest and teach them that distance changes the throw. Closer is easier. Further requires more.
What you need: 10 tennis balls. Three large cardboard targets (boxes work) labeled 1, 2, and 3.
Setup: Place target 1 at 8 feet, target 2 at 12 feet, target 3 at 16 feet. All in a line from where the kid throws.
How to run it:
- Review the cue: Turn, Shuffle, Point, Fire.
- Round 1: throw 3 balls at target 1. Count hits.
- Round 2: throw 3 balls at target 2. Count hits.
- Round 3: throw 3 balls at target 3. Count hits.
- Last ball: they pick the target they want. They get one shot.
What to watch: Does the throwing motion stay the same when the target moves further away? Most kids will start chucking the ball with their whole body when they reach for distance. Same form, more leg drive, is what we want.
If they’re struggling: Use only targets 1 and 2. Stay inside 12 feet.
If they’ve got it: Add a target 4 at 20 feet. Or take away the closest target and start at 12 feet.