MAIN Toy Reviews Yackle Ball

Yackle Ball

Made in the U.S.A by Ttalf Corporation, approximate retail $22.95, ages 5 +, Yackle Ball Jr. ages 2 to preteen.

What, you might ask, goes farther than a football, higher than a basketball, and is easier to catch than a baseball?

Well, when you think of a ball you almost always think round, with the exception of a football or maybe a soccer ball. Well, try thinking outside the circle.

A small innovative company in North Carolina has expanded the definition of "ball" — imagine "X" marks the spot. The brain-child of Ttalf president Patricia Littwin; the Yackle ball not only adjusts your image of a ball but it takes the standard rules of the game of catch and bumps them up a notch or two.

At first glance, the Yackle Ball is an x-shaped; two color, tossing apparatus, constructed of water-resistant marine vinyl. However, once you pick it up and give it a whirl you catch on very quickly that it is a whole lot more. The Yackle ball's aim is to make outdoor ball sports friendlier for those who would normally opt out. It does that and more.

The Yackle ball's design makes it easier for beginning ball hurlers to learn how to catch and throw. The aerodynamic shape and light weight allow an easy toss to get quite some distance. The fact that it is considerably softer than other sports balls allows you to overcome the fear of getting walloped by the ball while trying to catch it. Besides the basic game of catch there are a half dozen games and a full team sport that can be played with a Yackle Ball. All ages can get in the fun regardless of athletic ability, from toddler to Grand.

The different size Yackle Balls make it even more appealing to all. I can't wait to try the glow in the dark, night Yackle Ball.

Promotes:
· Large motor skill development
· Hand- eye coordination
· Team work
· Color recognition
· Spatial coordination

It's new, it's innovative, it's great exercise, and loads of fun.

Yackle Ball is available in 19 color combos, including a pink ribbon Yackle that donates part of the proceeds to the Susan Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

About the Author: Mary Rose is a Mommy, a writer and an early childhood educator who believes in learning through play and the value of good toys.