I got the inspiration for these [tag]softball tips for kids[/tag] from Bobbi. This helps with a situation that every [tag]youth[/tag] [tag]softball[/tag] [tag]coach[/tag] encounters at least once. Try them out and let me know what you think!
From Bobbi…
Okay, not rocket science, but remember these are 6-7-8 year old girls…….
As you know a dirt field just screams to them to bend over and draw in the dirt, tuned out to the practice that is going on….
Here is the dialogue:
“Everyone put down their [tag]gloves[/tag], that’s right in the dirt, shake your hands, do a little dance, loosen up real good, now I want you to sit down right where you are and draw in the dirt, draw me a picture, write your name, draw a butterfly, whatever, make it good, real good. Take your time, I want you to enjoy the dirt experience. Everyone done? Look around at your teammates artwork. Some good art? Nice job everyone.
Now stand up, brush yourself off, pick up your glove. Listen and listen up real good, I will say this once and only once: That is the last time I want to see any of you drawing in the dirt during [tag]practice[/tag] game. If you are caught playing artist again, two laps around the outfield. 2nd offense, 3 laps, 3rd time, you sit the bench for: (fill in appropriate slot)”
While this didn’t alleviate it totally, it made a significant difference in who was there to learn softball, and who was a budding Picasso. The parents and spectators loved it.