I have a very young group of players, some even 5 yrs old. I like running stations since the younger ones have a short tension span. I use these free softball drills to begin our practice.
First, I use the Alligator drill. It works well for anyone on the team but especially the younger ones. The other drill that I learned at a camp works really well on teaching this age group to get their hands out in front. I call it the “Defensive Bat Drill”.
Defensive Bat Drill
Put a bat down on the ground and have the player stand behind it a couple of feet. Roll the softball toward the bat and teach them to field the ball in front of the bat—-of course without stepping on the bat.
This just helps them learn to keep the glove out in front of them and again works great with the Alligator drill for beginners.
Call Your Name Drill
Here’s another good softball drill for kids 7-10 years old. Have fielders on the infield in a line with their backs to you. Throw grounders to them and as you throw them call out a name.
They have to turn toward you in the ready position and quickly track the ball into their glove to make the play. Kids enjoy this drill and it helps them to learn to quickly track the ball off the bat.