The coordination involved in learning to kick a ball is HUGE! As a physical therapist, when I watch a child kick a ball, I like to see reciprocal arm and leg movement (meaning if the right leg is kicking, the left arm swings forward), the ability to kick with good force, and the control to be able to guide the ball in a certain direction. One of the best ways I have found to help kids improve their kicking skills is to utilize a large, very under-inflated therapy or exercise ball! Because the ball is large, squishy, and has some good weight to it, it provides excellent proprioceptive input to the foot and leg that are kicking it! The result — increased awareness of that leg, a great balance challenge, and some awesome strengthening all at once!
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photo credit: Brenda Anderson via photopin cc – Text added
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