From Playground to Court: Making Pickleball Fun for Kids

What’s the secret to getting kids excited about a sport they’ve never tried before? Make it fun from the start.

Pickleball might not be the first activity that comes to mind when you think of kids running around and playing games. But it should be. It’s fast, social, and easy to pick up, which makes it perfect for younger players. That said, simply tossing a paddle their way and pointing at the court probably won’t do the trick. Kids need more than rules and structure to fall in love with a sport. They need energy, play, and a few smart choices from adults to guide the experience.

So, how do you take pickleball from “What is that?” to “Can we play again tomorrow?”

Table of Contents

1. Start With the Right Paddle

This matters more than most people realize. A paddle that’s too heavy or awkward can turn an easy game into a frustrating mess.

Look for kids pickleball paddles specifically. These are usually lighter, shorter, and easier for small hands to control. A good paddle helps with accuracy and swing speed, but more importantly, it makes the whole thing feel manageable. If a child struggles to hold or swing it, they’ll lose interest fast.

Getting them involved in picking their own paddle can also add a little excitement. Let them choose a color or style they like. If they feel like it’s their paddle, they’ll be more likely to want to use it.

2. Keep It Simple at First

Diving into full games with strict rules isn’t the way to go. Instead, strip things back. Start with basic rallies or aim-based games. The goal is to get them familiar with the ball, the bounce, and how the paddle feels.

No need to keep score right away. Focus on movement, rhythm, and hand-eye coordination. Let them hit the ball as many times as they want. Celebrate the little wins, like making solid contact or sending the ball over the net. The first few sessions should feel like a playground, not a match.

3. Turn Practice into Play

Most kids aren’t interested in “drills.” But they’ll jump into a game without hesitation, even if it’s secretly helping them build skills.

Instead of repeating the same motion over and over, create mini challenges. Think obstacle courses, target hits, or “how many hits can you get in a row” competitions. You can even add creative themes, like pretending the ball is a spaceship or the court is lava. If it feels like play, they’ll stay engaged longer and learn more without realizing it.

4. Use Shorter Sessions

Adults might enjoy a full hour of back-and-forth, but kids usually top out much earlier, especially when they’re still learning. Aim for shorter, high-energy sessions.

You can always take breaks, switch to a different activity, and then come back to the court later. Ending on a high note (before they get bored or tired) keeps the experience positive. The last thing you want is for them to associate pickleball with being exhausted or overwhelmed.

5. Choose the Right Court Size

Standard courts can feel massive to smaller kids. Consider shrinking the play area. You can tape down new lines, use cones, or simply agree on boundaries with them verbally.

Smaller courts mean less running to chase down balls, more success making contact, and a more manageable learning curve. As they get more confident, you can expand the space gradually.

6. Get Creative with Scoring

Scoring doesn’t have to be traditional. You can invent your own point system based on effort, not just outcomes.

Try something like:

1 point for making contact
2 points for hitting it over the net
3 points for a rally of three or more hits

It’s flexible, lighthearted, and rewards progress. Make sure to cheer every point and adjust the system based on age or skill. The goal is to build confidence, not create pressure.

7. Make It a Social Event

For a lot of kids, sports are about friends first, and everything else second. Set up group games or invite a few other kids to join in. Partner games or small-team challenges can add that social energy that individual practice lacks.

Even better, let them make up their own game now and then. You’ll be surprised how inventive they can be when given the chance. When it feels like a party, not practice, they’ll want to come back.

8. Celebrate Progress (Big and Small)

Every improvement should be recognized, whether it’s a clean serve or simply sticking with it after a missed shot. Kids respond to encouragement. Make your feedback specific and positive.

Instead of a vague “good job,” try saying things like:

“That was a strong backhand – you really hit through it.”

“You kept your eyes on the ball the whole time!”

“Nice hustle chasing that down.”

The more they feel seen and supported, the more they’ll believe in their ability to improve.

9. Adjust for Age and Ability

Not every kid will start at the same level. Some might be naturally coordinated, while others need a bit more time. Tailor your approach accordingly.

For younger kids (under 6), the focus should be 90% on movement and fun. Forget the net if needed. Just get them swinging, jumping, and hitting the ball back and forth. For older kids, you can introduce more structure once they’ve got the basics down.

If something’s not clicking, switch it up. There’s no one right way to teach pickleball. Stay flexible and keep it fun.

10. Join In Yourself

Kids mirror what they see. If you’re on the sidelines scrolling your phone, they’ll notice. But if you’re out there with them – laughing, swinging, making mistakes – they’ll stay engaged longer.

You don’t need to be a pro. You just need to be present. And remember, when you treat it like play, they will too.

Make It Their Game

If you want kids to love pickleball, you have to let go of your own expectations a little. Let it be messy. Let it be loud. Let them be silly with it.

When you create an environment where they feel free to move, experiment, and laugh, the skills come naturally. The better they feel on the court, the more they’ll want to return. And before you know it, you won’t be asking them to play, they’ll be asking you.

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Maive G