Basketball is a fun and healthy activity that your entire family can enjoy. Even toddlers and young children love the idea of tossing a ball through a hoop. The problem is that standard basketball hoops are simply too tall for little ones to even have a chance of hitting. Fortunately, you can find a hoop that will be ideal for the tiniest members of your family so that they can have fun and be active as well. Knowing what features to look for will help you select the best option.
Size, of course, is a major influence on your decision. Your determination will depend on the age, height and abilities of your child. For instance, if you have a toddler who is still learning how to throw the ball, you might look at hoops that are the same height or just slightly taller than your child. If you have an elementary student with a good arm, a hoop that is taller than your child yet much shorter than a standard hoop might be best.
Consider where your child is likely to play basketball, whether it is on your back patio, in the driveway or on the kitchen tile. Then you can shop for hoops that are portable, easy to store or even weatherproof. For very young children, a plastic setup is safest as your child is less likely to suffer injuries if the hoop falls or he bumps into it than if it were made of metal.
Children grow quickly, so you may want to shop for hoops that are adaptable and adjustable. As your child gets taller and her skills improve, you can change the height of the hoop, as well. Other hoops can be removed from the shorter poles on which they come so that you can fasten them to a wall, such as on the side of your home or garage.
Finally, consider the type of ball that fits into the hoop. Your child has small hands and may still be mastering fine motor skills. Hoops that come with smaller basketballs made of foam will not only be easier for your little one to use but safer to boot.
