Tennis
Readiness Isn’t About Age, It’s About Skills

When can kids start SMART Tennis™?

It’s one of the most common questions we get — and here’s the truth: it’s not about age, it’s about ability.

More specifically… can they catch?

If your child can track, send, and receive a ball — even just in your driveway or living room — they’re likely ready. That’s when kids can start SMART Tennis™.

When Can Kids Start SMART Tennis™? Look for These Early Signs

At around ages 3–4, many kids begin showing the physical coordination needed to get started. This stage is all about play-based exploration, where tennis is introduced through movement and fun.

Key Readiness Skills:

• Catching with both hands
• Tossing to a partner
• Rolling or lightly throwing toward targets
• Reacting to a ball’s movement

These skills can be developed anywhere — no court required.

If your child is doing these things, it’s another sign that they’re ready. That’s when kids can start SMART Tennis™ — no pressure, just play.

Introducing
the SMART Racket™

Once catching is consistent, your child can begin using the SMART Racket™ — a tool designed to make learning tennis fun and successful.

The SMART Racket™:

• Slows the ball for easier catching and rallying
• Gives instant feedback for quick progress
• Makes learning the game feel like play

Start introducing:

• How to score points
• Where to send the ball
• Friendly competition with fun at the core

This is what makes SMART Tennis™ ideal for young beginners.

Racket Mode + Driveway Rallies

As your child gets more confident with the SMART Racket™, you can switch it to “racket mode” — boosting the challenge just a bit.

They’ll be ready to:

• Try a driveway net
• Use a real youth racket
• Learn serving and switching positions

And guess what? They’re still doing SMART Tennis™ — just at the next level.

SMART Racket™ Designed for Skill-Based Tennis Progression at Home

When Can Kids Start SMART Tennis™ on a Real Court?

So… when can kids start SMART Tennis™ on a court?
If rallies last 5–10 hits and your child is loving it — that’s your sign.

Now’s the time to:

• Join group classes
• Learn our SMART method (Strategy, Movement, Angles, Rallying, Technique)
• Build confidence through structured, play-based learning

Readiness Is
About Reps,
Not Birthdays

Your child could be 3, 5, or 9 — it doesn’t matter.
What matters is: can they track, catch, and send a ball?

If yes, they’re ready. That’s when kids can start SMART Tennis™.

We built our program to meet kids right where they are.
There’s no pressure — just fun, growth, and love for the game.

Ready to Start?

👉 Explore the SMART Racket™ & SMART Start Bundle
👉 Book a Free Trial Class