Pickleball isn't just for adults; it's a fun and rewarding game for kids too! But what makes it such an attractive sport for the younger generation, and how can you introduce it to them in the right way? Here's everything you need to know about pickleball for kids.

Is pickleball good for children?

The short answer is a resounding yes! Pickleball is a great sport to get young people involved in, and here are just some of the reasons why:

They genuinely love it

Kids' enthusiasm for pickleball is often natural and contagious. Just suggest a game and watch the excitement wash over them - and that passion is a great starting point.

It helps them gain more confidence

Pickleball, although it’s fun, like many other sports it is also challenging. Overcoming these challenges can significantly raise a child's confidence. This boost can spill over into other areas like school, making pickleball not just a game but a tool for personal growth.

It is a great form of exercise

While pickleball is low-impact, it's not low-cardio. Your kids will get a fantastic workout, leaving them red-faced and energized.

How to encourage pickleball for kids

Here are some tips for getting kids involved in the wonderful world of pickleball:

Don't be overbearing

Balance enjoyment and education; let them have fun and learn at their pace. Too much instruction can ruin the experience, so ask them what they want to learn and go from there.

Be on their team

Kids love the idea of being part of a team, especially with someone they look up to. Emphasize that pickleball is primarily a team sport, and they'll be more eager to get on the courts.

Let them play with your paddle

Starting with a casual game, hitting the ball back and forth, helps to gauge their skills and teach them the basics of pickleball.

Ensure they are prepared

For the best playing experience, ensure your child has tennis or court shoes that have stability and flat soles. A lightweight racket that they can easily manoeuvre is also a good idea.

Teaching them the fundamentals of pickleball

Here are the fundamentals to know when it comes to pickleball for kids:

Be mindful of other people’s time

Be respectful of others at the courts, especially those who might not want to play a beginner's game.

Teach your child two basic rules

Don't overwhelm them with every single rule. Let them learn organically as they play and have fun. Start with the kitchen rule and the double bounce rule. These foundational guidelines help keep the game going and make it more enjoyable. 

Scoring

Teach them how scoring works in pickleball. Keeping score, even if not emphasizing wins or losses, is an essential part of the game.

The final word on pickleball for kids (for now)

Introducing kids to pickleball can be a rewarding experience, both for them and for you. It's more than just a game; it's an opportunity for growth, bonding, and lifelong enjoyment. With the right approach, equipment, and attitude, you'll have them swinging paddles and hitting balls with huge smiles on their face in no time. Happy playing!

If you’ve enjoyed this blog on pickleball for kids, be sure to stick around for part 2, where we take a deep dive into what makes it such a great game and why it’s the fastest-growing sport.

While you wait for part two to drop, be sure to check out our book, Pickleball, Who?

At Dewey Does, our passion is the health, well-being and happiness of young people and we love it when we see kids involved in sports that keep them fit and active - plus, we are home to a range of trendy kids' clothes that would make a perfect outfit for pickleball for kids everywhere.

While you’re here, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you heard of pickleball before? Is pickleball for kids something you would get behind?

Hi, Team Does. I get all my sports news and updates from my friend Tommy Ommy, host of Straight from the Basement Sports Podcast. Be sure to follow him wherever you get your podcasts and check out his YouTube channel for sports news and conversations - Dewey.

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