An average American child between 8 and 12 years old spends 5 to 6 hours a day in front of the screen. Though technology brings incredible ease to our lives, the significance of physical activity for your child’s health can not be overlooked.
So, get your kids away from behind the screens and onto the pickleball court because this fun and exciting game offers the simplest way to meet their exercise requirements. Just by getting them acquainted with a few pickleball rules, your kids will be seen right into the game. So, what is pickleball for kids? Is it easy for kids to play? And most importantly, how to introduce pickleball to your kids? Get your answers in this comprehensive guide.
Contents
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball was first invented in the United States by the three dads of boring kids in 1965. Now, it is one of the most popular games in the US, with over 36.5 million players.
So how pickleball is played? And does it really involve pickleball? The game does not involve pickles, but it is really a fun-filled game. Once you introduce your kids to pickleball, they will enjoy playing it again and again. For kids, this game is a great way to reduce their screen time.
At its core, pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements from tennis, badminton, and ping pong. Pickleball for kids is played on a badminton-sized court, using a wiffle-type ball and ping-pong-style racquets.
Besides, the rules are pretty easy to pick up. You can play a single game (2 players) or a double game (4 players). Unlike other games, pickleball for kids does not involve complex rules or equipment. You just have to step into the court with paddles and your friends to let the fun begin.
Reasons Your Kids Should Play Pickleball
Pickleball for kids is a smart way to enhance athletic abilities and stay active. In addition to physical benefits, the game offers social perks as well. One of the great reasons for the popularity of pickleball among kids is that the big star in pickleball, Anna Leigh Waters, is just 16 years old.
Let’s walk through the most compelling reasons for pickleball for kids.
Easy to Play
Unlike tennis, pickleball is a really easy game. Kids can understand the whole game on their first day. By following the basic game rules, kids can make the most out of this game.
Source: iStock
A Family Sport
Pickleball is suitable for all ages. Kids can even play this game with their parents or grandparents. Since the court can be improvised in your backyard, kids can play in the family events as well.
Great Physical and Mental Activity
The best thing about this game is your kid’s daily threshold of 60 minutes of physical activity will be achieved. What else? Pickleball for kids improves your mental well-being by releasing endorphins.
Improved Socialization
Pickleball is a social sport, so it helps improve the socialization skills of your kids. Besides, kids get an opportunity to make new friends.
Affordable Equipment
You need balls, paddles, and a pair of shoes to get your kids started. Pickleball equipment for kids is not expensive. So affordability is another compelling reason for stepping into a pickleball court.
How to Introduce Pickleball for Kids?
If you want to teach your kids this interesting game, here are a few expert tips to step on the right foot.
Teach Them Basic Rules
Pickleball rules are not very complicated. However, they can be overwhelming for kids. Instead of following all the rules, start by following just the basic rules. When my kids started playing this game, I asked them to follow just two rules initially. These were “waiting for a single bounce before hitting the ball” and “underhand serve.”
Try Out Variations
Want a double dose of fun and excitement? Playing the same game again and again can become boring for kids. So you can try the different variations of pickleball. I used to play this “Around the World” version of pickleball with my kids.
Warm Up
A brief warm-up session before the game is a great idea to loosen your muscles and prevent injury. A few stretches or jogging will help your blood flow.
Start With Basic Skills
Pickleball for beginners should start off slowly, preferably with singles. Giving paddles in their hands will let them asses how hard they should hit the ball. Besides, trying different pickleball drills for kids will also be advantageous.
Source: Pixabay
Pickleball Paddles for Kids
Since pickleball for kids is quite popular, many brands have launched pickleball-specific paddles for players aged under 12. Always choose a reputable brand and focus on your kid’s skill level before purchasing a pickleball paddle for kids.
Here are a few important factors in a pickleball paddle to look for:
Weight
The junior paddle should be lightweight with more control. The deal size of paddles for kids should be between 6.5 oz and 6.9 ounces. Helium Junior Pickleball Paddle Set is an ideal choice if you want a lightweight and durable pickleball paddle for kids.
Grip size
Paddles for kids should have a smaller grip size. As paddles come in different grip sizes, you can choose one suitable for your kid’s grip size. The minimum grip size of available paddles in the market is 4 inches, which is an ideal size for your kids under 12.
FAQs
Can children play pickleball?
Yes, pickleball is suitable for all ages. Kids can play with their parents and friends alike.
Is pickleball easy for kids?
Pickleball is really easy for kids as it is played on a small court with a lightweight paddle. The basic pickleball rules for kids are pretty easy to follow.
Can a 4-year-old play pickleball?
You can begin young kids start playing as long as they develop the strength to hit the ball over the net. If your kid is not able to hit the ball at this age, you can try Ping-Pong. It will help them develop the skills needed to play pickleball once they get older.
Wrapping Up
Pickleball is no longer a grandparents’ game. It is a great fun activity for people of all ages. Pickleball for kids offers an interactive opportunity to develop social skills while meeting the threshold of their physical activity. Above all, it does not involve heavy equipment, making it ideal for kids.
Let’s now look at the 10 awesome tips on how to improve your pickleball game.