Pickleball for kids? You betcha! Pickleball is a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis and has surged in popularity across all age groups. It’s particularly appealing for children because it's easy to learn, played on a smaller court than tennis, and requires only minima equipment. (May we recommend some fun, cute pickleball paddles?!) Teaching kids how to play pickleball not only introduces them to a fun and engaging sport but also offers numerous physical, mental, and social benefits. Ready to hit the pickleball cour with kiddos? Here’s how you can help kids learn to play pickleball, along with some simple drills to get them involved in the game.
Understanding the Basics
Before jumping into drills, it’s important to ensure kids understand the basic rules and objectives of pickleball. The game is played on a smaller court with a net, using paddles that are larger than ping pong paddles but smaller than tennis rackets, and a lightweight plastic ball. The objective is to score points by serving the ball and playing it so that the opposing player cannot return it properly.
Easy Drills for Kid Pickleball Players
Here are some fun and simple drills to help kid pickleballers grasp the basics of pickleball and improve their skills:
Dinking Practice:
Objective: Teach control over the ball by hitting it softly into the opponent’s kitchen (the non-volley zone).
Drill: Kids pair up and continuously dink the ball back and forth, trying to keep it within the kitchen. This helps improve hand-eye coordination and teaches the strategy of controlling the court.
Serve and Return:
Objective: Improve serving and returning skills.
Drill: Have kids line up and practice serving the ball to a specific section of the court. Then, practice returning serves directed at them. This drill emphasizes accuracy and consistency in serves and returns.
Four-Corner Drill:
Objective: Enhance mobility and the ability to hit from different angles.
Drill: Place a cone in each corner of the court. Have the child run to a cone, retrieve a ball, and hit it back to a coach or parent. This helps build agility and precision in shot placement.
Relay Races:
Objective: Incorporate fun to develop quick feet and agility.
Drill: Set up relay races where kids have to run with the paddle to a ball, scoop it up, and run back to the start line. This can be made more challenging by requiring them to balance the ball on the paddle.
Fry the Egg:
Objective: Proper paddle grip, hand-eye coordination.
Drill: Have kids hold the paddle flat, like a frying pan. Place a ball on each child's paddle. See if they can move the paddle around without dropping the ball. Kids always think this is fun and love to compete with each other!
Benefits of Playing Pickleball
Introducing kids to pickleball not only provides them with a fun activity but also offers a range of benefits:
Physical Fitness: Pickleball provides a great cardiovascular workout that improves heart health, builds muscle strength, enhances coordination, and increases stamina.
Social Skills: Since it’s typically played in doubles, pickleball helps children develop teamwork and communication skills. It’s also a great way for them to make new friends.
Mental Development: The game requires strategy and quick thinking, which can enhance cognitive functions.
Inclusivity: Pickleball is accessible to players of all skill levels and ages, making it perfect for family play and fostering an inclusive environment.
Outdoor Activity: It encourages outdoor play, which is beneficial for mental health and reduces screen time.
Let's Play Pickleball for Kids
Teaching kids to play pickleball is a rewarding experience that imparts valuable life skills and health benefits. You don't have to complicate things by trying to play a whole game! Start with some of the drills above and work your way up. By starting with simple drills and emphasizing the fun aspects of the game, parents and educators can spark a lifelong interest in this dynamic sport. Whether it's enhancing physical fitness or building social connections, pickleball has something to offer every child.
