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Age 3 lesson plans
Important tips for every lesson
- Children should learn early to hug their racquets and to "freeze" upon command.
- If a pupil is not achieving enough success with any new drill or shot, do not allow him or her to become discouraged. Move the child back and forth between the previous step or shot in the progression and the new activity to attain a satisfactory mix of success.
- Use spots to position children for most drills.
- The balls used make a huge difference in children's success. Be sure to use balls appropriate for 3-year-olds, especially balloons (if conditions permit), beanbags, beach balls, large rubber balls, Koosh balls, special high-density foam balls and tail balls. Avoid regular tennis balls.
- Always use the names of lines and parts of the courts when giving directions.
- Counting aloud (for concentration and consistency) helps keep children motivated. One counting method is to have the children try to join the "5 Club," "10 Club," "20 Club" or to achieve a "World Record."
- Shot of the day demonstrations should include not only the demonstration and shadowing of a new shot or stroke, but also reminders of what children have learned so far.
- Each lesson's welcome may include greeting each child and parent by name, keeping attendance cards for parents and children, introducing instructors and dividing children and their parent-coaches into groups with assistant coaches.
- Use name tags for the first few lessons until instructors know all the children.
- The head clinician may use a whistle to start, end and control attention during drills.
- Remind everyone to apply sunscreen and wear hats if you play outdoors. Include plenty of water and shade breaks, especially in warm weather.
- Wrap-ups may include high points of the day's lesson, homework assignments, information about equipment, thanks and an invitation to refreshments.
- Asking parents or other family members to participate strengthens children's confidence, lets the head clinician become a master of ceremonies and teaches parents how to do homework practice with their children. Have parents join children in relay drills.
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