Kids Beginners Watching the US Open

The US Open is in full swing this week. Across the country, parents and children are found sitting at the edge of their seats watching sensations like Roddick, Williams,Davenport, play tennis. At this very moment, I'm witnessing LIndsay Davenport stage a comeback against Marion Bartoli. The underlying question that comes to my mind is what can children who are just starting to play tennis stand to gain from watching professionals. How can a kid learn about tennis from watching the game? One of the ways kids can learn about tennis is by watching the foot movement and shoulder movement of the professionals. The camera often focuses on the feet and shoulders. Kids should look at how the players turn their shoulders while preparing for shots. Kids should also notice the players moving their feet and leaning from one side to another side. Sound shoulder and turns and footwork can bolster even a beginners game

In addition, kids should listen for the umpires announcing the scores. Kids need to learn how to compete and one of the essential aspects of competing. Kids should also look at the scoreboards that flash on the screens.

Arthur Ashe Kids Day

I attended Arthur Ashe Kids Day. I'm trying to find the fountain of youth and stay a kid. I was pleasantly surprised by the excitement that the USTA created about tennis at Arthur Ashe kids Day.There were approximately 12 courts with sizzling games. Obstacle course, challenges, such as hitting targets an lifting heavy balls, drills such as hitting back and fourth abounded.Each of the courts worked on specific skills such as speed, agility, reaction, and defense. All of the courts seemed enticing. Prizes were given and the activities on each court were unique After the drills, kids were invited to a fabulous concert with Demi Lovato and Minuto, both sensations among kids. I hope that the kids day generates enthusiasm for tennis.

Tips for parents playing tennis with their kids

As a tennis teacher I feel I should give parents a few hints for how to enjoy tennis with their kids.

Take it slow and start small. Don’t be surprised if your child can’t play for a full hour. Start by playing for 15 minutes, then the next time aim for half an hour. After that try playing tennis for an hour. Purchase foam balls and lower nets. Foam balls can be bought at Sports Authority or Target. Portable nets can be purchased on rallytennis.com.

Slow down! Toss the ball with your hand, don’t hit the ball to your child with a racquet. Stand close to your kid when you throw the ball. Kids can’t always hit the ball when you are on the other side of the net, If your kid cannot connect, help them by simultaneously swinging the racquet with them and tossing the ball in front of them. Also practice shadowing where they copy you swinging the racquet.

Make it into a game. Here are some games that include fictional elements
- Fruit salad: Each kid is a fruit. As the game administrator you call out their fruit and then they hit the ball. Graduation: in this game a kid moves up a grade each time they hit the ball. Storylines keep kids excited about the game. If they want to play a real game- show them how to score the game and engage.


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