There are many complementary teaching aids or pieces of equipment that are self-styled or come from toy stores, sporting goods stores or physical education supply houses. For instance, frog-shaped beanbags from a toy store are easier for the youngest children to balance on their racquets than tennis balls.

But it isn't necessary to purchase all new equipment to start a Little Tennis program, either. For instance, a ball machine that can feed a very soft ball or pops up the ball works well for kids, as do some of the same types of targets you use in adult lessons.

Following is a partial list of items you may already have or might want to consider working into your program.

• Balloons
• Large inflatable balls
• Soft rubber balls
• Flying disks
• Large foam balls
• Upright adjustable tees
• Tape targets
• Ball machines
• Hula-hoops
• Beanbags
• Jump ropes
• Fleece balls
• Plastic cones
• Praise charts
• Stickers