Teaching Pickleball: How to Get Kids Started

If you’ve ever had the joy of playing pickleball, you know it’s more than just a sport – it’s a fun way to bond, stay active, and get some exercise with family and friends. But what if I told you teaching pickleball to kids could be one of the best decisions you make? In this article, I’m sharing some easy tips and tricks to help get kids started with pickleball, making sure they have a blast while learning the basics of the game. Grab your paddles, and let’s jump in!

Why Pickleball for Kids?

Before we dive into the fun drills, let’s talk about why pickleball is perfect for kids. First off, it’s super fun! Kids love playing pickleball because it’s fast-paced, and it’s easy to get them to rally back and forth. Plus, it’s a low-impact sport, which is easier on their bodies than more intense games like basketball or soccer.

Pickleball is also great for teamwork and communication – skills every kid needs to build. And, let’s not forget the social aspect: playing pickleball helps kids meet new friends and bond with the ones they already have. That’s why more families are embracing pickleball as a go-to activity for kids to play!

Getting Started: The Right Equipment for Kids to Play Pickleball, Paddles and more…

Before we hit the courts, let’s make sure the kids have the right equipment to get them started with pickleball. You don’t need a lot of expensive gear, but there are a few essentials:

Pickleball Paddle: When you’re teaching pickleball to younger kids, you’ll want a lightweight paddle that’s easy to handle. For kids aged 5-11, the Paddletek Phoenix LTE is perfect. For older kids, a slightly heavier paddle, around 7.5 oz, is ideal. Some good choices include:

• Paddletek Tempest Wave II: Light, with great control, perfect for beginners.

• Onix Z5 Graphite Paddle: Durable and great for older kids or teens.

• Selkirk Amped S2: Offers a larger sweet spot, making it easier to hit the ball.

Pickleballs: Pick up outdoor pickleballs like the Dura Fast 40, which are tougher and easier to control for kids. If you’re playing indoors, try Jugs Indoor Pickleballs.

Court Shoes: It’s super important to have the right shoes for quick movement and support. I recommend:

• ASICS Gel-Rocket 9: Offers awesome traction and support.

• Nike Court Lite 2: Comfortable and durable.

• Adidas Barricade Club: Known for stability and comfort, perfect for kids playing pickleball.

Comfortable Clothing: Dress your kids in comfy athletic gear that allows freedom of movement, and make sure the fabric wicks away sweat to keep them cool.

Setting the Scene: Creating a Fun Environment to Learn Pickleball

Now that we have our gear, it’s time to create a fun and exciting environment for kids to learn pickleball. Here’s how you can keep it fun while teaching the basics of the game:

Positive Attitude: Kids take cues from us, so keep the mood light and full of energy. Celebrate the small wins – like a good serve or a perfect volley.

Tailor the Game to Their Skill Level: Adjust things like the net height and court size to make it easier for younger kids. A lower pickleball net can turn a hard-to-reach shot into an exciting victory!

Keep it Fun: Make sure the game is always about fun, not competition. If it feels too serious, kids will lose interest. You’re looking to focus on having fun, staying active, and laughing together.

Fun Drills to Get Kids Playing Pickleball

Let’s dive into some fun drills that’ll get your kids moving and learning pickleball. These will help build basic skills while keeping it exciting!

1. Rally Time
Start with a basic rally drill where you and your child stand a few feet apart and try to hit the ball back and forth. The goal is to keep the ball in play with just one bounce per side. This helps kids develop hand-eye coordination and become more comfortable with the paddle.
Tip: Use colorful balls to grab their attention – kids love bright colors!

2. Target Practice
Set up cones or buckets on the court and have kids practice hitting the ball into the targets. This will improve their serve and accuracy while keeping it fun.
Tip: Create a points system for hitting targets – kids love friendly competition!

3. Dinking Challenge
Introduce the dinking technique by standing near the net and trying to hit soft shots over the net. This helps kids work on finesse and control, essential skills for every pickleball player.
Tip: Turn it into a game by seeing who can keep the rally going the longest without missing.

4. Kitchen Rule Relay
Teach kids the kitchen rule (no standing in the kitchen) with a fun relay race. Set up cones to mark the kitchen, and have kids run to the kitchen area, hit the ball back, and race back to their starting point.
Tip: Add fun movements like hopping or skipping to keep it silly and fun!

5. Mini-Tournaments
Once your kids know the basics, host a mini pickleball tournament with short friendly matches. Pair them up with family members or friends. This is a great way to introduce them to competition and teamwork.
Tip: Give their teams fun names and homemade trophies for the winners!

Keeping Kids Interested in Pickleball

Once your kids are hooked on pickleball, the key is to keep the excitement going. Here are some ways to encourage them to keep playing:

Involve Friends: The more, the merrier! Encourage your kids to invite their friends for even more fun on the courts.

Join Local Pickleball Events: Look for local pickleball events or matches that welcome kids. These events are a great way for kids to meet other pickleball players and improve their skills.

Create a Home Court: If you have the space, set up a mini pickleball court in your backyard. This gives kids an easy way to practice whenever they want.

Be Their Cheerleader: Attend their games and cheer them on. Your support will boost their confidence and help them feel proud of their progress.

The Benefits of Playing Pickleball

As your kids get into pickleball, they’ll reap tons of benefits:

• Physical Fitness: Pickleball is a great way for kids to stay active, improve coordination, and get a good workout.
• Social Skills: Playing pickleball teaches teamwork and communication – essential skills for kids.
• Cognitive Development: Pickleball encourages kids to think fast and make quick decisions, helping their brain grow.
• Emotional Growth: As kids improve their skills, they gain confidence and learn how to handle both wins and losses, encouraging good sportsmanship.

Final Thoughts: Time to Hit the Courts!

There you have it – a collection of tips and drills to get your kids started with pickleball. Remember, the most important thing is to keep it fun and let kids enjoy the game. Celebrate their progress, no matter how small, and always encourage them to stay active and enjoy their pickleball experience.

Now, it’s time to grab your paddles, gather your kids, and hit the courts! Who knows – this could be the start of an awesome family tradition that lasts for years or even a life time. Happy pickleballing!

For additional resources on gameplay techniques, buying guides, and product reviews and everything related to pickleball, be sure to check out our site.

Here’s also a great youtube video on ‘How to Teach Pickleball to Kids with Pro Pickleball Coach Mark Renneson‘ to help you get started.