Two-handed backhand is the standard for kids. Both hands give support and consistency. The motion mirrors the forehand: turn, swing low to high, follow through. Shadow practice builds it before the ball complicates things.
What you need: Youth racquet, open space.
Setup: Kid in athletic stance, racquet held with both hands.
How to run it:
- Cue: Turn, Drop, Lift, Follow (same as forehand, opposite side).
- Turn shoulders to the backhand side, racquet back with both hands.
- Drop the racquet head below the imaginary ball.
- Lift through, contacting the imaginary ball in front of the body.
- Follow through with both hands over the opposite shoulder.
What to watch: The grip. Both hands on the racquet, dominant hand below, non-dominant hand above. Many kids use only one hand.
If they’re struggling: Have them hold the racquet still in the contact position to feel the grip and body angle.
If they’ve got it: Add a balloon or beach ball to hit. Or move to a real ball at low speed.