How to Teach a Baby to Roll a Ball

One of the first games a baby learns is how to roll a ball. Rolling a ball is fun for a baby, and helps develop motor skills and coordination. Make sure that the ball is large and light enough to make rolling it easy for the baby. Never use very small balls, as these are a choking hazard to the baby. Read on to learn how to teach a baby to roll a ball.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Be patient. A baby usually does not understand how to roll a ball until they are between nine and 12 months old. It's fine to try to teach a baby to roll a ball prior to this age, but the baby might not catch on until later.
2. Use encouragement. Cheer the baby on when he is trying. Smile and praise the baby for every attempt. Babies thrive on positive reinforcement, so this will make rolling the ball a fun experience for the baby.
3. Show the baby how to do it. Babies learn by watching. Make the movements slow and exaggerated, and let her watch as you roll the ball. Sit behind the baby and help her roll it by guiding her hands.
4. Make it fun. Involve more family members to teach the baby, but make sure not to leave the baby out. If the baby gets tired of rolling the ball, just try again later. If he doesn't want to play, he won't be interested in learning.
5. Avoid getting frustrated or angry. The baby will learn in time, and any negativity will just lead to him not wanting to try again. Rolling a ball is a skill, and skills develop with practice and patience.