The Bounce Pass

In pairs, children pass a big ball so it bounces once inside a hoop placed between them, like a basketball bounce pass. It works on two-handed passing and catching and on cooperating with a partner.

How to play

1. With one child, the teacher shows the pass: push the ball with two hands so it bounces inside the hoop and lands in a friend's hands (2 min).
2. In pairs, sitting face to face with the hoop in between, we roll the ball through the hoop to each other (2 min).
3. Standing up, we do a pass with one bounce inside the hoop; the catcher makes a basket with their hands (3 min).
4. Each of us takes a step back whenever the pair decides, and we keep passing (3 min).
5. We switch partners and do three goodbye passes (2 min).

Rules

• The ball bounces in the hoop and reaches my friend.
• A gentle pass, so my friend can catch it.
• If it gets away, whoever is closer goes to get it.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: bounce pass with the partner sitting at the same height as the wheelchair.
• Autism: keep the same partner the whole time and always use a hoop of the same color.
• Visual impairment: a ball with bells inside, and the partner says "Here it comes!" before passing.

Learning goals

• Pass a ball with one bounce to a partner.
• Catch with both hands ready.
• Play cooperatively with a partner.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Large rubber balls: 13
• Hoops: 13

Teacher tip

Make the pairs yourself to balance skill levels. Kids usually slam the ball into the hoop, so say "the ball bounces and goes to sleep in your friend's hands".

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