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Playground Balls

Classic playground balls in a variety of sizes.
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Our quintessential playground balls can stand up to rough playground use. The variety of color and size options make these a multifunctional addition to any recess period or PE class.

Impressive Longevity

Our premium two-ply rubber cover is constructed for long-term use on hard, rough outdoor surfaces like concrete and blacktop. The ball's bladder features superior air retention, even during heavy use, giving your students the opportunity to play hard. Kicking is not recommended.

Perfectly Pliable

The two-ply construction features a soft and pliable surface for students' comfort and success. When throwing and catching, students will have superior control since it won't slip through hands.

Multiple sizes and colors make this ball a staple on the playground.

  • 6" dia
  • 7" dia
  • 8.5" dia
  • 10" dia

Gopher Playground Balls are available in Sets of 6, in all 4 sizes, and Individually in 8.5" dia.

 

15 Fundamental Movement Skill Activities Using Gopher's Playground Balls

The objective of these activities is to engage students in developing a wide range of fundamental movement skills using the versatile and durable Gopher Playground Balls. These balls are softer, easier to grip, and come in multiple sizes and colors, making them ideal for all ages and ability levels. Students will perform locomotor, non-locomotor, manipulative, and body control movements in fun and imaginative games designed for individuals, small groups, or entire classes. Each activity targets specific physical literacy skills while maximizing participation, enjoyment, and skill development.

1. Bounce Battle Bonanza: Students form pairs and bounce a Gopher Playground Ball back and forth, trying to maintain a rhythm. Each time they complete five consecutive bounces without dropping, they take one step backward. Focus: Bouncing, Coordination, and Dynamic Balance.

2. Gallop and Grab Gauntlet: Set up cones using Rainbow DuraCoat Cones in a large area. Students gallop between cones and must pick up or place balls at each station. Focus: Galloping, Reaching, and Core Stability.

3. Playground Ball Pong: Set up targets (like buckets or hoops) at varying distances. Students bounce the ball and try to land it into the target. Focus: Bouncing, Aiming, and Power Movements.

4. Hot Potato Hustle: In a circle, students pass a Gopher Playground Ball quickly to the next person to music. When the music stops, whoever has the ball must perform a balance pose. Focus: Passing, Timing, and Static Balance.

5. Hop 'n Pop Challenge: Students hop on one foot while bouncing the ball. After five hops, they switch feet. Add levels with dribbling or catching while hopping. Focus: Hopping, Dribbling, and Coordination.

6. Underhand Undercover: Set up small hula hoop targets on the floor. Students practice underhand throws to land the ball inside the hoop. Focus: Underhand Throwing, Aiming, and Control.

7. Balance Beam Ball Walk: Students walk along a floor line or balance beam while holding a ball on a paddle like the Rainbow UltraGrip Paddle Set. Focus: Static Balance, Core Stability, and Control.

8. Balloon Bounce Tag: One or two students are “taggers” and must tag others using soft, low-bounce throws. Tagged students freeze and hold a balance pose. Focus: Throwing, Dodging, and Balancing.

9. Leapin' Launchpad: Students jump from poly spots and try to launch the ball through the air to land on a target. Focus: Jumping, Landing, and Throwing Power.

10. Sway & Slay Circle: In a wide circle, students sway side to side, mimicking waves, while passing the ball around without breaking rhythm. Focus: Swaying, Passing, and Cooperation.

11. Pull & Plop Relay: Students “pull” balls using jump ropes (like the Rainbow Licorice Speed Ropes) across a designated line. Focus: Pulling, Coordination, and Lower Body Strength.

12. Rolling Rodeo Round-Up: Set up pins (using Rainbow DuraPin Foam Bowling Pins) and have students roll the ball to knock them down. Focus: Rolling, Accuracy, and Aiming Skills.

13. Wall Sit Sling Shot: While holding a wall sit, students toss balls to a partner. Encourages strength and control under muscular tension. Focus: Balancing, Throwing, and Core Stability.

14. Sliding Shadow Showdown: In teams, students slide side-to-side trying to intercept playground balls rolled from the opposing side. Focus: Sliding, Reaction, and Teamwork.

15. Jump Jive Jugglers: In a challenge round, students must continuously jump while keeping two playground balls bouncing off alternating hands. Focus: Jumping, Hand-Eye Coordination, and Multitasking.