Pickleball First Steps

Pickleball First Steps is a practical guide designed for elementary and middle school physical educators, as well as instructors at clubs, camps, and park and recreation programs, to introduce children to the fast-growing sport of pickleball. Geared toward students in grades 4–8 (ages 8–14), this resource provides a sequenced curriculum that takes beginners from initial exposure to confidently playing and enjoying the game. Endorsed by the International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association, the lessons are aligned with SHAPE America’s physical education standards and emphasize fun, engagement, and skill development.

Key Features:

• Offers a detailed, developmentally appropriate curriculum for children ages 8–14.
• Includes 10 sequenced lessons focusing on fundamental skills such as the dink, drop shot, serve, and ground strokes.
• Provides lead-up games and activities to make learning fun and reinforce skill development.
• Guides teachers and instructors on how to incorporate pickleball into existing PE or recreation programs.
• Contains 85 photos and 15 illustrations to support preparation and instruction.
• Emphasizes student engagement, safety, and lifelong participation in physical activity.
• Supports skill progression from beginner to confident gameplay in a structured, enjoyable manner.