When it comes to getting kids involved with any sport, it can take a little bit of creativity to keep their attention. While adults often have the intrinsic motivation to seek out a new sport, kids require some additional encouragement to foster their interest.

Once you have them hooked on a sport like Pickleball though, they will thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to improve their athleticism and hand eye coordination. And (as an added benefit of getting them interested in sports at an early age) they often later become those active adults who seek out new sports and athletic challenges, making for a happy, healthy lifestyle in the long run.

Although Pickleball is certainly a competitive sport when played by serious players, helping kids to develop paddle control requires some teamwork before they are ready to take you on in a live match. While their wild or erratic shanks might earn them a few points here and there by keeping you on your toes, this can teach them to rely on sloppy returns and luck instead of skilled dinks and controlled ball placement.

Because their motor skills are still developing, they will benefit much more from a friendly volley than from a competitive match to score points.

Start by counting the back and forth between players on either side of the net, both sides (singles or doubles) working together to reach 15 or more consecutive hits.

In addition to making a game out of an extended volley between sides, creating practice drills for kids to develop their skills can become a game in its own right.

For example, you might set up some hula hoops for them to aim for while practicing their serves. As a reward, they could earn a piece of candy or 15 minutes of iPad time later on for every mark that they hit.

Get creative with the drills based upon the skills that they need the most help with or that they are the most interested in. You could work on footwork with some tape or other markers on the ground for them to step between, around, or over or create other creative adaptations for regular Pickleball paddle skills.

Just like adults, kids can be motivated by slightly superficial factors just as much as the practical ones. Picking out a coordinated outfit, a new pair of snazzy shoes, or their own cool racket can inspire kids to want to play the game.

Set them up with their own duffle bag for their Pickleball equipment and any clothing or accessories that they will use for practice and games. Seeing these special items in their room or by the door will prompt them to ask you to hit the court more often, even if only because it provides the opportunity to strap on their favorite pair of light up shoes.

Welcome to TennisRacquets.com! For over 42 years our dedicated and seasoned staff have been providing tennis, golf, running and fitness enthusiasts top-notch brand name merchandise and unparalleled customer service.

Learn more...