Tennis is an excellent sport for kids of all ages. It is an opportunity for them to develop important life skills, while staying in shape and improving their mental and emotional wellbeing. Children who are enrolled in sports do better academically and learn the value of hard work, perseverance, and discipline. However, it may be a challenge getting your young child interested in the sport, especially if they are used to spending time in front of the television. Here are some fun ways to introduce tennis to your kids, and how our kids tennis summer camp in Toronto is the perfect place for them to learn.
Let Them Play
You can introduce your child to tennis without setting them on a court. They don’t even need to use a real tennis racket. You can pique their interest by using modified equipment. For example, you can purchase a kids’ tennis set and set it up in your backyard to play with them. Even from an early age you can develop their interest in tennis as they spend time with you.
Be a Good Mentor
No matter how much the world around us has changed, somethings always stay the same. Children still want to grow up and be like their parents. If they see their parents doing something, they are more likely to copy and show the same interest. If you would like to involve your child in tennis, show them that you enjoy it. Include them when you play by letting them participate and teaching them cool tips and tricks about the sport. If they see you playing tennis with other adults, chances are they will also want to join in on the fun. Make sure that you bring the game down to their level when they show interest.
Bring the Game Home
Children are creatures of habit and once they become reliant on television and video games for entertainment, the harder it will be to motivate them to go outside and play. Keep the kids unplugged by creating your own children-friendly court in your backyard. You can purchase a small net or paint a line across your lawn, use small rackets, and a bag of tennis balls. By setting up tennis at home, you increase the chances that they will play and stay active.
Let Them Choose
Remember that the decision to enroll in tennis belongs to your child. Although you may want them to play, they won’t have a good experience if they feel forced. There are ways for you to pique their interest in the sport, so do your best to make it fun and interesting for them. In the end, however, it will be a more successful learning experience if they want to learn.
Find a Good Program
A good children’s tennis program is a great way to get them invested in the game. They will learn the basics and gain physical skills that are required to play the sport. In addition, they can also make new friends who share this hobby. Children are far more likely to maintain a hobby if it involves their social circle. Unsure of where to begin? Consider enrolling them in a summer tennis camp. They will learn all they need to know about tennis as they develop athletic skills, good sportsmanship, independence, and make new friends.
Keep Practice Time Short
Children have a shorter attention span than adults, so keeping practice time short will help maintain their concentration and interest. Focus on teaching one or two pointers per session and allow them to spontaneously play and experiment.
Get Them Geared Up
Have you ever noticed how simply changing into your yoga or workout clothes motivates you? The same applies with kids. Get them geared up with the right clothes—breathable shorts and a t-shirt, good running shoes, and socks that wick away sweat. Make it fun by adding a headband, hat, arm bands, and a fun jersey if you’d like! Getting them geared up is a great way to increase their interest.
Keep Them Actively Involved
Make sure your child is always moving, whether they are practicing alone at home or training in a group setting. Children who are not actively involved during the sport can be encouraged to participate in other ways. This may include counting how many ball bounces or dribbles are achieved in a row by the players on the court.
Make Tennis Fun
At this early stage of learning, tennis should not be taken too seriously. Don’t over emphasize technique and strategy or you may discourage your young child. Instead, consider whether each lesson is fun. You can make tennis fun by inviting their friends to learn with them, or encourage their siblings to practice with them. Attending a tennis summer camp is also a great way for them to learn about tennis while making friends and playing.
Enroll Them in a Local Tennis Summer Camp for Kids
If you’re seeking ways to make tennis interesting for your child and motivate them to get involved with the sport, our camp offers tennis lessons for kids in Toronto. We begin with our experienced instructors and amazing courts and facilities, and we create an environment that gets kids excited to learn and play. They can make friends and develop important social skills that they will have for all their lives. Our coaches are not only experienced with the game but also know the best ways to encourage children, help them have fun, and develop their skills in a non-intimidating environment. At our tennis camp in North York or Toronto, your kid can also meet with other local children in their age group, making the experience even better.
Bayview Village Tennis Camp is the best tennis camp in the GTA. Its Tennis Canada-certified instructors work to teach kids not only how to have fun with tennis, but also how to play smart and safe. More information about the junior, intermediate, and advanced summer tennis programs can be found by calling us at (905) 889-7293 or emailing pnielsen889@rogers.com.