Joining a youth baseball league is a fun way for children to make friends and exercise after school. However, before the first season, your kid's excitement may turn into nervousness. If you want to ease their worries, help them with pre-season baseball training and utilize the strategies below so that they have the best experience. 

How Should Your Child Prepare for the First Year of Baseball?

1. Shop for Equipment

While many youth teams provide helmets, balls, and some bats, your child is responsible for bringing their own glove. This is because having a comfortable fit helps them catch and grip a baseball. Wearing a different glove each game makes this process challenging, as the new material may impact your child's skills.

Also, they will need athletic shoes and well-fitting cleats. The athletic shoes help with baseball training when they are not in the field, such as batting practice and playing catch at home. On the other hand, cleats help players dig into the hard dirt and grass field so that they can take off running quickly.

2. Practice Often

A little baseball training before the start of the season will help your child hone their skills. For example, head to your backyard and throw the ball around to help them practice catching and throwing. Throw a few ground balls around the area so that they can get used to running after the ball in their new shoes.

Also, take them to a local batting cage to practice their hitting. Many of these facilities even offer hitting lessons and camps that group kids together to help them improve their skills.

3. Review the Rules

If possible, take your kid to a professional baseball game. This allows you to explain the rules and each player’s position in real time as the game progresses. Watching people who have an incredible skill set will help your child understand what is happening.

Also, talk to your child's coach to see if their age group will be playing by any alternative rules. For example, some leagues don't allow bunting when kids are young, as this increases the chance they get hit with the ball. If so, explain these rule differences ahead of time to prevent confusion when your child practices and plays with teammates.

Help your kid feel confident about the upcoming baseball season by bringing them to The Cages Training Facility in Phoenix, AZ. This indoor batting cage center and baseball training facility has all the necessary equipment to help players improve their game. Their staff includes some of the best coaches in the region who will work with your child to understand baseball and perfect their technique. Call (602) 923-0607 to speak to a team member about your needs, or visit the website to learn more about their memberships and baseball training camps.