We love the familiar thwock of a rally and the friendly banter across the net. But the true future of pickleball is in the next generation. So, what’s the secret to ensuring that your children or grandchildren have a positive first-time experience, encouraging them to love this game for a lifetime as much as we do?

Think back to how you learned. Was it a friend who made it simple, or did you grab some paddles and just start whacking the ball? Regardless, you were playing—and hooked—within minutes. That’s the magic we want to recreate for kids.

The goal isn’t to create a pro on day one. It’s to spark joy. So, how do we get kids off to the right start?

Here’s the playbook:
1. Make it FUN, Not a Lecture. Resist the urge to over-coach. Do you like it when someone constantly corrects you? Kids are no different. Give them space to swing, rally, and discover the game with minimal technical chatter. Let the initial experience be about play, not perfection.
2. Be a Friend, Not Just a Coach. Kids learn best from friends through observation and trial-and-error—think of how they master a skateboard. Adopt that supportive, non-judgmental, learn-by-doing approach. Be their pickleball buddy first.
3. Adapt the Game to Fit Them. If they struggle, change the rules—not their enthusiasm!

• Use lighter balls: Indoor or foam balls bounce higher and move slower, building confidence fast.
• Start simple: Rally over a line on the driveway before introducing the net. Start them closer to the net with short dinks.
• Modify the rules: Allow multiple bounces, extra serves, or play on a ¾ court. Use simplified rally scoring.

4. Patience is Your Best Paddle. If frustration builds, offer a hug or a fist bump and say, “I’m so proud of you for trying. Let me know when you want to play again. For now… how about ice cream?” The goal is to create a positive memory, not win a drill.

At its heart, pickleball for kids should be an outlet for exercise, laughter, and stress relief. Teach them the way you’d want to be taught.

Years from now, when you see them playing with their own friends, you’ll smile and think, “I remember when…” Let’s build those memories together, one fun rally at a time. Growing the game, one kid at a time.

Read the full article by Jason Jamison at pickleballmagazine.com HERE.