Ball on the Ice Cream Cone
The ball is the scoop and the cone is the ice cream cone: children hit the scoop so it flies off, first with a hand and then with a paddle. They practice striking a stationary ball with body rotation, tee-ball style.
How to play
- In pairs, balance the ice cream scoop on top of the cone (2 min).
- One partner hits the scoop with an open hand; the other fetches it and sets it back (4 min).
- Switch roles and try the other hand (3 min).
- Pick up the paddle: stand sideways, twist your body and hit the scoop (4 min).
- Enjoy a pretend ice cream, then clean up and stack the cones (2 min).
Rules
- I only hit when my partner is beside me, not in front.
- I hit the scoop, not the cone.
- The fetcher waits behind the line.
- We switch roles after three hits.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, hand only and a short cone; an adult sets the ball.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, hand first, then paddle.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, use the paddle to send the ball toward a hoop target.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: put the cone on a chair or table at arm height.
- Visual impairment: a brightly colored ball with a bell, and the partner says "ready" after setting it.
- Less coordination: a bigger ball and a wider paddle.
Learning goals
- Strike a stationary ball with the hand and with a tool.
- Rotate the trunk when striking.
- Take turns and respect each role.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Cones: 12
- Foam balls: 12
- Cardboard paddles: 12
Teacher tip
Line all pairs up hitting in the same direction and keep fetchers behind a marked line. If the ball won't sit on the cone, squash the tip a bit or use an upside-down plastic cup.
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