Instructions for Kids on Playing Tennis

Playing tennis offers a child a way to compete and have fun while also providing a great cardiovascular work out as the child must run to get the balls that are hit at them. As a child grows as a player they will often look to improve so that they can be more successful as a player. When dealing with a young tennis player, it is important to balance improving and winning with having fun and life outside of the court.

Instructions

    • 1

      Begin playing tennis at a young age, around 7, to determine whether the child enjoys playing the game.

    • 2

      Refrain from serious instruction in tennis until the child is at least 10 years old. Focusing too soon on intense instruction risks taking the fun out of the game for the child.

    • 3

      Play for fun. While winning can enhance the fun of a day, the game should never be only about winning.

    • 4

      Secure private lessons once it is determined that there is love for tennis, and the child wishes to be as good as she can be.

    • 5

      Ensure that tennis remains just one part of the player's life, and that proper attention is still given to school work, time with friends and time with family.

    • 6

      Take breaks from tennis if the child has been spending too much time playing and is showing signs of burn out, including drops in both performance and enjoyment when on the court.