Top 1 coaches for Pickleball lessons near Neenah, WI

Bring plenty of water and dress comfortably

Adapting pickleball lessons for kids is all about making the game fun, engaging, and accessible. Here's a breakdown of how to do that: ✅ 1. Keep It Fun and Fast-Paced Use games and challenges instead of long drills. Example: “King/Queen of the Court” or “Target Zone” with cones. Celebrate effort over performance. Keep activities short (5–10 minutes max) to match their attention span. ✅ 2. Simplify Instructions Use clear, simple language. Instead of "forehand volley technique," say, “Hit it like a pancake flip!” Show more than you tell. Use demonstrations and visuals. ✅ 3. Use Kid-Friendly Equipment Use: Lighter paddles Foam or slower balls (like foam tennis balls or pickleballs with less bounce) Lower nets if needed Mark boundaries with cones or colorful tape to make court size smaller. ✅ 4. Break Down Skills Introduce one simple concept per session: Holding the paddle like shaking hands. Tapping the ball up in the air. Bumping the ball over the net (drop and hit). Movement and positioning using games like “shadow the coach.” ✅ 5. Gamify Learning Create point systems, mini prizes, or fun themes (pirate pickleball, space serve mission). Use team formats so kids cheer each other on. Have a “skill of the day” challenge at the end. ✅ 6. Be Patient and Encouraging Always reinforce effort, sportsmanship, and improvement. Be flexible—if one drill isn’t working, switch it up. Encourage laughter and fun over strict technique at this age. Sample Lesson Plan for Kids (Ages 6–10) Time: 45–60 minutes Warm-Up Game – “Freeze tag” with paddles (5 min) Paddle Control Drill – Bounce ball on paddle (5 min) Partner Rally – Tap ball back and forth over net (10 min) Serve Practice – Underhand serve to cone targets (10 min) Mini Game – 2v2 with smaller court (15 min) Cool Down – Group stretch and highlight everyone’s effort (5 min)