Bitty Ball is designed to introduce young children to the game of baseball in an exciting and supportive environment. While having fun is a major part of the experience, the program also helps kids build essential baseball skills that will set the foundation for their future in sports. Here’s how we do it:
1. Practice Focus: Building Core Baseball Skills
At Bitty Ball, we focus on helping children develop a strong foundation in the basics of baseball. During practices, players will work on the following:
Throwing and Catching Techniques: Through fun drills, kids will learn the mechanics of a proper throw, such as stepping forward with the opposite foot and following through. They’ll also practice catching using two hands to build confidence in their fielding skills.
Field Positions: Understanding where each player should stand is key to learning the game. We’ll introduce the basic field positions (such as pitcher, infield, and outfield) and explain their roles in a fun, easy-to-understand way.
Basic Fielding Skills: Children will practice how to field ground balls as well as how to transition quickly from fielding to throwing to a teammate. These skills are fundamental to developing confidence on the field.
Hitting: Using softer baseballs and smaller bats, children will work on the basic mechanics of a proper swing, learning how to make contact with the ball and follow through.
Base Running: Kids will also learn the basics of base running, including how to run to first base after a hit, how to turn at first, and when to make a run for the next base. Base running develops speed, agility, and an understanding of how the game is played.
2. Small Teams for Better Engagement
To ensure every child has ample opportunities to practice and improve, Bitty Ball utilizes small teams of 8 to 12 players. This setup offers several benefits:
More Touches on the Ball: With fewer players, every child gets more chances to practice key skills—whether it’s throwing, catching, hitting, or running the bases—leading to greater engagement and faster development.
Personalized Coaching: Smaller teams allow coaches to give each player more individualized attention, helping them understand the techniques and concepts they’re learning.
Greater Focus: With fewer players on the field, kids are less likely to get distracted. They stay engaged and are more likely to enjoy the game because they’re actively involved in every play.
Teamwork and Friendship: Playing on small teams gives kids a chance to connect with their teammates, learn how to communicate effectively, and build important social skills that will last beyond the field.
3. Fun, Positive Atmosphere
Our primary goal is to create a positive, supportive environment where each child can develop at their own pace, feel confident, and have fun! Coaches focus on the process, not just the outcome, and encourage kids by praising effort, improvement, and teamwork.
Encouragement: Instead of focusing solely on winning, our coaches emphasize the joy of learning, skill-building, and good sportsmanship. This approach helps kids develop a genuine love for the game and learn how to handle challenges in a healthy way.
Building Confidence: Through consistent positive reinforcement, children build their self-esteem and enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering new skills.
Lifelong Love of Sports: Bitty Ball fosters a love of physical activity and teamwork, helping children develop a passion for sports that will stay with them as they grow.
4. Game Play: Focused Development through Simple Drills
One of the most successful aspects of Bitty Ball is how we incorporate skill-building into game play. We ensure that each child gets plenty of opportunities to apply what they’ve learned in a real-game setting, all while having fun.
Infield Line Drill: A great example is our “Infield Line Drill,” where kids line up across the infield and field a ground ball before throwing it to first base. This drill helps players practice fielding, improve their throws, and understand how each play in a real game flows—every play involves throwing the ball to first. This simple setup ensures that every player is involved in every play, maximizing reps and skill development.
Parent Involvement/Coaches
At Bitty Ball, we believe that parent involvement is a key part of the program. We require at least one parent from each child’s family to register as an assistant coach. This is a fantastic way to become more involved in your child’s baseball experience and learn the basics of the game alongside them. When you register as an assistant coach, you’ll receive valuable training and support, and you’ll get the chance to directly help with your child’s development. If you have never coach before, I will have a rough guide on how to get kids attention and work on some basic fundamental during practices that will get your team ready to play in the games.
Please remember to register as an assistant coach, not as a team parent or manager. Your role will be an important part of ensuring the success and fun of the season!
Join Us for Bitty Ball!
We hope your child will join us this season for Bitty Ball! It’s a great opportunity to learn the fundamentals of baseball in a supportive, fun environment. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the T-Ball Commissioner at
[email protected]. We can’t wait to see your child on the field!