Game version
Let the child be the coach for a turn: show the grown-up how to do “Shoot into the Bucket”, then swap.
Shoot into the Bucket
Push a soft ball up and into a bucket or box from close by, with two hands from the chest. Early shooting with a target at a child’s height.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Put a bucket or box on a low chair or step, a big step away.
- Ages
- 4 to 6
- Time
- 3 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Soft ball, bucket or box on a chair
- Level · skill
- Beginner · Shooting
The steps
How it works
- Put a bucket or box on a low chair or step, a big step away.
- Hold the ball at the chest with both hands.
- Push it up and into the bucket, like a soft rainbow.
- Move one step back after 3 good shots.
Coaching point
Praise the try: “Great rainbow shot!”
Safety: A soft ball only. The bucket sits low and steady, and nobody stands next to it.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Story
You are a superhero in training, and “Shoot into the Bucket” is today’s mission.
Practice makes progress
Print it now, or save it free
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