2 Tennis coaches & instructors for lessons in El Paso, TX

Please be dressed appropriately as we’ll be active. Tennis shoes is a requirement. Thank you.

When I’m working with kids — even if I’m teaching the same core tennis skills — my approach, pacing, and communication shift a lot from how I’d coach adults. The key is to keep it simple, keep it moving, and keep it fun while still reinforcing proper technique. Here’s how I adapt: 1. Adjust the Environment • Court Size: Use smaller courts (red, orange, or green ball court dimensions) so kids rally sooner and feel successful faster. • Equipment: • Lighter racquets suited to their height and strength. • Low-compression balls (red, orange, green) to slow the game and lower bounce height. • Targets & Visual Aids: Cones, flat markers, hula hoops for aiming — kids respond better to visual goals than verbal ones. 2. Simplify Communication • Short Instructions: 1–2 key points max per drill (e.g., “Turn your shoulders” or “Hit in front”). • Demonstrate More, Talk Less: Kids copy movement better than they process long explanations. • Positive Framing: Replace “Don’t drop your racquet head” with “Keep your racquet up high like a superhero sword.” 3. Build Engagement & Fun • Game-Like Drills: Wrap technique into challenges — e.g., “Hit the cone” or “Can we get 5 in a row?” • Mini-Competitions: Races, accuracy games, and team challenges keep energy high. • Role Play: Give creative themes (“Pretend you’re a ninja when you split step” or “Hit the ball over the mountain”). 4. Keep Lessons Dynamic • Short Segments: Rotate activities every 5–8 minutes to match their attention span. • Movement First: Avoid long lines — have multiple stations or feed quickly so kids are always active. • Progressive Challenges: Start easy, then add small challenges (smaller target, faster ball). 5. Focus on Development Beyond Technique • Coordination & Agility: Include off-court activities like ladder drills, catching games, and reaction ball bounces. • Sportsmanship & Confidence: Praise effort, not just results — encourage high-fives, “good shot” habits. • Self-Discovery: Ask guiding questions — “What happens when you hit earlier?” — so they learn to problem-solve. 6. Manage Energy & Behavior • Set Clear Expectations: Start each lesson with 2–3 simple rules (e.g., “Listen, try your best, have fun”). • Reward Good Habits: Stickers, stamps, or “Player of the Day” keep kids motivated. • Read the Room: If attention drops, switch to a quick game before returning to technique.