Teaching How to Catch: 101
Teaching How to Catch: 101
Teaching kids how to catch is one of the most rewarding skills to share as a parent or coach. Itâs not just about improving their coordination or helping them excel in sportsâitâs also about boosting their confidence and ensuring they enjoy the process.
To make this experience positive and memorable, there are 3 key principles to keep in mind: avoid injuries, create a high success rate, and make it fun. đ
1. Avoid Injuries
Kids are more likely to try againâand keep tryingâif they feel safe. Nothing discourages a young athlete faster than an unpleasant experience like getting hit in the face or stubbing their fingers. Thatâs why the equipment you choose is so important.
2. Create a High Success Rate
Kids naturally gravitate toward activities they feel good at. When teaching a new skill, setting them up for success is essential. The easier it is for them to succeed, the more theyâll want to keep practicing. A big part of this is using the right tools.
So how do you address both of these at once? The answer lies in finding the perfect football.
The Perfect Football: Softee 12-Inch Footballs
Through trial and error, Iâve found that a 12-inch Softee football is a game changer for teaching kids how to catch. Hereâs why:
Itâs big: The larger size makes it easier for kids to track and catch, especially when theyâre just learning.
Itâs soft: Even if itâs thrown a little harder, getting hit wonât hurt. No stinging fingers, no painful face shots, just laughs and learning.
This special combination of size and softness helps solve the first two challengesâsafety and successâeffortlessly. Your child can focus on enjoying the experience without the fear of getting hurt, and theyâll build confidence as they see themselves improve quickly. When Eli was younger Wilson used to make NFL 12 inch Softees but I think they have stopped making them. Franklin makes a really cool ball called MY FIRST FOOTBALL that is similar size, weight, and would be a great ball to teach with. Here are some pictures of the balls:
3. Make It Fun
Finally, donât forget the most important element: fun! Kids learn best when theyâre engaged and having a good time. Turn catching practice into a game. Cheer for them when they make a great catch, and laugh with them when things donât go as planned.
By keeping things lighthearted and positive, youâll create a bonding experience theyâll look forward to and remember. And the more they enjoy it, the more likely they are to keep working on their skills.
Conclusion
Teaching kids how to catch doesnât have to be complicated, but it does require thoughtfulness. By prioritizing safety, setting them up for success, and ensuring every practice is fun, youâll help your child develop not only their catching skills but also their love for the game.
And donât forgetâstarting with the right tools, like a Softee 12-inch football, can make all the difference. Give it a try and watch your young athlete light up with confidence and joy!
Starting Your Kid's Social Media Checklist:
Here is a quick checklist to get you started with you website blow. Remember imperfect action beats inaction, get started and keep publishing.
