How to Reduce Kids’ Screen Time and Get Them Playing Tennis
In today’s tech-driven world, it can feel like a losing battle to peel kids away from their screens. However, getting them active and engaged in a sport like tennis not only reduces screen time but also instils lifelong skills, promotes health, and encourages social interaction. Here’s how you can transition your kids from virtual gaming to the real-life thrill of tennis:
1. Make Tennis Fun from the Start
Children are naturally drawn to activities that are enjoyable and exciting. Tennis can be introduced through fun, game-based lessons that feel more like play than formal coaching. Programs that focus on movement, coordination, and simple rally games are perfect for young beginners.
Consider starting with mini tennis, where smaller rackets and lower-bouncing balls make the game more accessible. At Banstead Downs Tennis Club, for instance, we use age-appropriate equipment to ensure kids feel confident and successful from their first swing.
2. Lead by Example
Children are heavily influenced by what they see at home. If you enjoy tennis, show your enthusiasm by playing regularly or even watching matches together. Family tennis days are a great way to bond and inspire your child to participate.
3. Create a Routine
Replace screen time with scheduled tennis activities. If kids have a set time each week for tennis lessons or family play sessions, they’ll start to see it as part of their routine. Many clubs, including ours, offer after-school or weekend programs, which fit perfectly into busy schedules.
4. Highlight the Social Side
Tennis isn’t just a physical activity—it’s a fantastic way to make friends. Encourage your child to join group lessons or friendly matchplay sessions where they can meet peers and develop social skills while having fun on the court.
5. Encourage Friendly Competition
Healthy competition can be a great motivator. Signing your child up for low-pressure tournaments or fun team events introduces them to the excitement of competition without the stress. Programs like our Doubles Starters or junior matchplay events are a good stepping stone for building confidence.
6. Reward Effort, Not Just Success
Celebrate every step of progress, no matter how small. Whether it’s hitting their first rally or simply showing up for practice, acknowledgment goes a long way in keeping kids engaged and enthusiastic about tennis.
7. Set Boundaries for Screens
It’s important to pair these tennis strategies with clear limits on screen time. Create tech-free zones during certain hours and offer tennis as an appealing alternative. Balance is key—replacing rather than removing screen time helps kids transition more smoothly.
8. Use Technology for Good
Leverage technology to promote tennis! Fun apps, online tennis challenges, or even watching their favourite players like Carlos Alcaraz or Iga Świątek can inspire kids to pick up a racket.
Start the Journey Today
Getting kids off screens and onto the tennis court is an investment in their physical and emotional well-being. At Banstead Downs Tennis Club, we offer a range of junior programs tailored to all ages and abilities. Come and see how we can help your child fall in love with tennis while reducing their screen time.
Why not sign them up for a taster session? The next rally could be the start of something amazing.
Get in touch today and let’s inspire the next generation of tennis players!
