Forehands – Teaching Guide 🎾
🎾 Forehands – Tennis Tots Teaching Guide
The forehand is often the first shot a child learns in tennis. It's easier than the serve and forms the foundation for many other strokes. Developing strong, fun forehands at this stage builds confidence and enjoyment early on.
👀 Demonstrate!
Children learn by watching. Please demonstrate a forehand at every level – kids mirror what they see!
🛠️ Hitting Tees – Technique Focus
Hitting tees are essential for younger children. They keep the ball still and allow consistent contact at the right height.
🧒 Use for ages walking to 4 years old
🎂 Ages 4–5 can begin live feeding (drop feeds, coach feeds, and basic rallying)
🔄 Rotate children through stations to reduce waiting and increase reps
🧍♂️ Key Technical Points:
📏 Sideways-on stance
🌈 Low to high swing path – like brushing a rainbow
🎯 Contact in the middle of the strings
🤝 Shake-hands grip at bottom of racket
✋ One or two hands – let them explore!
🟢 Use spots on the floor for foot placement
🪶 Feathers (Beginner/Younger Tots)
🎯 Stationary balls on tees
🤝 One-to-one parent support
✋ Gently guide racket hand
🎉 Celebrate ANY contact – big reactions build confidence!
⚡ Progressions (Older/Advanced Tots)
🔽 Drop feeds by coach or parent
🌀 Try brushing for topspin with “spin machines” (foam balls on string, etc.)
✋ Encourage one-handed hitting if ready
🔄 Add a loop in backswing for rhythm
🎯 Focus on target hitting
🤝 Start cooperative rallying over mini nets
🎾 Confident parents/coaches feed to different zones
🧰 Equipment Checklist
🏷️ Tennis tees
🏸 Rackets (17”, 19”, 21”, 23” recommended)
🎾 Foam balls (thick + thin), mini red balls
🟡 Floor spots
🌀 Spin machines / suspended balls (optional)
🏗️ Hoops, cones, mini nets
🎤 Final Coach Note
This section is free-flowing – you’ll often have a wide range of ability levels. Some kids will still be on tees, others might be rallying or even volleying.
✅ Use the parents – coach them on how to challenge their own child.
✅ Aim to interact with every child – offer simple, specific praise or guidance.
✅ Keep it positive and high energy!