Don’t forget to praise their efforts and show them that you enjoy the games you play together, too!
Even babies can enjoy playing with a ball. When a baby can hold up their head while lying on their tummy, encourage them to reach for the ball, by placing it just out of reach. This will encourage them to explore their surroundings, reach and grab!
Encourage your child to throw, kick and roll the ball to you. Make this easier at first by sitting or standing close to each other. Practice makes perfect – don’t expect your little one to catch straight away. You could even use a cardboard box or washing basket as a goal too!
Show your child how to use their hand as a bat. Bowl the ball to them and encourage them to hit it! As your little one improves; change the rules so that they must run from one base to another after a hit. The next step is rounders or cricket!
We hope we have inspired you to have some fun with a simple ball and get your little one and yourself a little more active each day to keep your hearts healthy. The possibilities are endless!
Sign up to receive our monthly Healthy Tip emails directly to your inbox
Discover ways to look after you heart
Traditional “eat less, move more” advice often fails people long-term, so it’s no wonder so many people are turning to medications to achieve weight-loss goals.
In this month’s Healthy Tip, Luca, Healthy Heart Coach at Heart Research UK, explains why strengthening your glutes is about much more than aesthetics, and how it can help protect your heart.
In this month’s Healthy Tip, Amie Leckie, Registered Nutritional Therapist and Health & Wellbeing Specialist at Heart Research UK, explores the world of supplements -highlighting which ones may be worth considering and which may simply lead to… an expensive wee!
Our 5 healthy eating tips are simple, back-to-basics stuff that doesn’t require any special supplements or equipment.
Explore our collection of heart healthy recipes
A zesty rainbow carrot and lentil spring salad that packs in the fibre.
A high-protein dip to make eating more veggies easier. Try our tangy Tzatziki recipe today!
A high-protein creamy edamame dip is a snack that supports heart health.
A flavourful roasted red pepper dip for spreading or snacking.