Velcro Balloon

Uses

• Use this piece of equipment for learners who struggle with catching and/or gripping skills.
• The velcro and slow movement of the balloon allows the learner to focus more on the process of tracking an object rather than actually catching it once they've tracked it.
• This also serves as a motivator for students to continue trying and eventually move onto more difficult practice (without velcro).
• Terms:
  • "Hook": the rough side of velcro
  • "Loop": the soft side of velcro

Construction Materials

• Velcro "Dots" or strips
• Balloon
• Cotton winter gloves
• Tape (if needed)

Instructions for Construction

1. Stick or tape velcro dots or strips ("Hook" side) onto the balloon.
2. Have the learner wear the cotton winter gloves.
3. Practice catching skills.

Modifications of Equipment

• Use "Velcro Glove" on this site if you don't have cotton winter gloves.
• Cut tips of fingers off the glove.
  • serves as a transition toward practicing without the gloves at all
• Insert coins, washers or nuts into the balloon to weight it down slightly for improving learners.