All-family Pickup Baseball Game

By Kidcomplishment's editors

Who doesn't dream of hitting the winning run in the bottom of the ninth? With the stands full of tense parents and a win-at-any-cost coach on the sidelines, kids can let the fear of making a mistake keep them from developing skills and enjoying the game. But for youngsters to have a chance to learn the essence of team play, good sportsmanship, and a love of the game, an informal all-family pickup game may just be the right ticket.

When one family from New York reported having tons of fun at one of these games, we decided to take their idea and go with it. 

Warming up
You don't have to be an all-star to make the family baseball game a grand-slam memory: General knowledge and the desire to try new things are all you need.

First, do a little preparation and rev up enthusiasm by checking out the Juniorbaseball Web site, which covers all the rules of the game. Then, gather a pail of baseballs, mitts for everyone in the family and a bat or two -- perhaps even some peanuts or other baseball snacks. Invite your neighbors or some friends, and head to a nearby baseball field. (Your own backyard may hold too many distractions for youngsters.)

Making the Team
To keep the focus on fun, once you're at the field, allow everyone to bat and to have a chance to play in many positions. If you don't have enough players for two teams, start with two batters and have everyone else play defense. Use as many infielders and outfielders as you like -- it all depends on how many people are playing.

When a batter makes an out, the catcher becomes the next batter and everyone else moves up a position, pitcher to catcher, first baseman to pitcher, second to first and so on. The newly retired batter goes to the last position in the outfield (but he'll move up fast). You can rig up a memorable pitcher-batter duel by placing Mom two positions behind or ahead of Dad.

Play for Fun
Whatever version you play, give the kids the opportunity to play different positions. But what's more important is that they see the adults actively participating in their sport. Nobody needs to feel not good enough to play. After all, even Mom is out there dropping the ball, and Dad might strike out. Don't forget that good-natured chatter is part of the game.

The Hannan family invited some close friends to join them; because their children were all under 5, they used a Tee Setter for more opportunities to hit the ball without the fear of being hit by a wild pitch. They also used foam bats and balls. This came in handy as during one of the plays, one dad accidentally hit the other dad with the ball. No one was hurt, and the diversion that followed allowed a few players to steal home!

Playing together sets the stage for learning and fun. The Hannans felt the experience provided ample opportunity for positive reinforcement, making everyone a big winner. Sammy Sosa doesn't have it this good! Give it a try!