We're going ballistic! The science behind throwing a ball

Throwing is one of those skills that many people feel they either can or can’t do. It sounds like it should be simple, “Throw the ball,” but the reality is, it's more complex than you might think. 

It’s actually very scientific!

Your toddler must be able to show a variety of skills, as ball throwing deals with balance, forces, speed and targets. 

Balance and coordination  

Your toddler is learning how to balance their body when they throw a ball. They need a strong core to maintain their balance.^[1] 

As your toddler learns how to throw a ball, they will develop a pattern of movement in their legs, arms, shoulders, spine and hips.  

Early body coordination 

Initially, your toddler will stand and face in the direction of their ball throw. 

They will try to keep their feet still and their body straight, without wobbling.^[1] Over time, they will learn to rotate their hips and use strength in their upper body to throw with more force. 

Style of throwing 

At this stage in your toddler’s development, their throw will often come from the elbow.  

They will raise the hand which holds the ball up to their shoulder and extend the elbow while releasing the ball.^[2] Their arm will look like it is slicing through the air as the hand releases the ball. 

This movement will be carried out in a stationary position for some time, while their core muscles are strengthening and they concentrate on keeping their balance. 

This pattern of movement will also progress, and your toddler will take a step backwards or forwards when their throwing skills develop.^[2] 

Targets, forces and speed 

For now, when your toddler throws a ball, they don’t really need a target to aim for. The fun is simply in the throwing. 

When they’re beginning to fine-tune their style of throwing, focus can be brought to a target. 

All kinds of factors will come into play at this point, like the size and weight of the ball, the distance away from the target and the force needed to launch the ball towards the target. Throwing a ball is a complicated process, so what an incredible achievement it is when your toddler does it! 

References: 

[1] Goodway, J.D., Ozmun, J.C., Gallahue, D.L. (2021) Understanding Motor Development Infants, Children, Adolescents, Adults. Eighth Edition. Jones & Bartlett Learning. 

[2] Haywood, K. (1993) Life span motor development. Human Kinetics Publishers.