Throwing Games for Preschoolers: Simple Park Targets

Preschool throwing games are easiest when the target is close, the object is soft, and one adult manages retrieval. Use an underhand toss toward a parent-held scarf, a bucket from home, or a chalk circle where drawing is permitted. Keep the lane away from paths, roads, swings, slide exits, and people who are not part of the game.

Set a target lane

Choose a flat, clear area. The adult stands beside the target, not behind it, so the child can see the landing area and the surrounding traffic. Use one thrower at a time. The CPSC Toy Safety FAQ is the source for following age labels and toy safety information; it does not replace a check of the actual object or park space.

The National Park Service’s Leave No Trace principles support keeping shared spaces open and being considerate of other visitors. Do not scatter objects across a walkway or ask a child to retrieve into a traffic lane.

Three target games

Parent-held window

Hold a scarf or your hands open at the child’s chest height. The child tosses a soft bean bag underhand. Move the target closer for an easy start. The adult retrieves every miss, then hands the object back. A child can hold the window while the adult tosses first.

Chalk circle

If the park allows chalk on the chosen surface, draw one large circle. The child tosses a soft object toward the circle and walks to retrieve it only when the adult says the route is clear. Keep the circle small enough that the object does not travel far. A scarf on the ground can replace chalk.

Delivery bucket

Place a wide, stable container close to the child. The goal is to send one object inside, then carry it back. The adult can hold the container for the first turns. Stop if the container tips or the object bounces toward other users. This is a target game, not a reason to throw harder.

How should children take turns?

Use the order thrower, retriever, target helper, then switch. A child can be the scorekeeper by counting turns rather than points. For a mixed-age pair, let an older child hold the scarf while the younger child tosses from close range. Avoid ranking children by distance or accuracy.

If the child throws overhand, say “underhand toward the target” and demonstrate. If the child still throws high or wide, switch to a handoff or rolling game. The ball-rolling games guide keeps the object low and offers a simpler lane.

Finish the game cleanly

Announce the last toss, retrieve the object, and put it in the bag. Remove chalk if the surface owner or park rules require it, and check for small items on the ground. Move to another activity only after the lane is open again.

For a child who needs the object to stay low, switch to catching games outside and let the adult roll first.

Sources

• CPSC, Toy Safety FAQ, retrieved 2026-09-06.
• National Park Service, Leave No Trace Seven Principles, retrieved 2026-09-06.

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