Welcome to our 10-week Tots Tennis programme, designed for our littlest players (under 5s) taking their very first steps into the world of tennis. In a safe, playful environment with soft foam balls, light racquets and plenty of colour, children explore movement, balance and coordination through games, songs and imagination. There’s no pressure and no experience needed, just lots of giggles and active play.

By the end of the term, your child will have gained confidence with a racquet and ball, improved their balance and coordination, and learned to listen, take turns and play alongside friends.

What we’ll cover

Week 1: Forehand. Meeting the racquet and ball for the first time! Players learn to hold the racquet, bounce and hit balls, and swing on their forehand side with games like “aliens” and target practice exercises.

Week 2: Backhand. Discovering the other side, with swinging games, balloon play and fun challenges to help little players get used to using both sides of the body.

Week 3: Serve. Learning to throw, bounce and tap the ball over the net, with targets, buckets and “knock down the tower” games.

Week 4: Net Play. Getting close to the net with quick feet and gentle hands, including catching games, balloon volleys and “tiptoe to the net” races.

Week 5: Matchplay. Our first team games! Taking turns, playing with a partner and cheering each other on, with simple scoring like counting how many balls we get over the net.

Week 6: Tactics. Starting to find the “empty spaces” on the court. Aiming at hoops, cones and the coach’s favourite colours.

Week 7: Attacking. Moving forward with big, brave swings and racing to the net in games.

Week 8: Defending. Running to retrieve balls, getting them back over the net and never giving up, with “rescue mission” relays and obstacle courses.

Week 9: Trading. Hitting back and forth with a partner or coach, keeping the ball going and trying to beat our team record.

Week 10: Matchplay. A celebration of everything we’ve learned, with party-style games, certificates and a chance to show parents and carers how far we’ve come.

Our approach

Every session is built around play. Sessions are short, active and full of variety, with stories, songs and themed games that keep little minds and bodies busy. Groups are small, praise is plentiful and the atmosphere is warm and encouraging, because children who love moving and playing are children who love tennis.

(please note, Friday session is only 9 weeks due to Good Friday)

Wednesday Tots 4-5

Thursday Tots 4-5
Friday Tots 4-5