Badminton Shuttlecock Rally Game

2 badminton rackets (youth size or lightweight adult)

2-3 shuttlecocks

A net or string tied between two posts at chest height

Set up the net or string across your backyard at about chest height for your child. A portable badminton set is inexpensive, but a string between two poles works too.

Give each player a racket and demonstrate the grip: hold the handle like shaking someone's hand, with the V of your thumb and index finger on top.

Practice the serve first. Hold the shuttlecock at arm's length in front of you. Drop it and swing the racket to hit it upward and over the net. Underhand serves are easiest for beginners.

Rally the shuttle back and forth. The goal is to keep it going as many hits as possible. Count out loud: "One! Two! Three!"

Shuttlecocks move slowly compared to balls, which gives your child more time to react and position themselves. This is what makes badminton perfect for developing striking skills.

Introduce forehand (palm facing the net) and backhand (back of hand facing the net) swings. Most beginners default to forehand only.

Try different shots: a clear (high and deep to the back) and a drop (soft and short over the net). These require different amounts of force.

Play points: serve and rally. If the shuttle lands on the ground on your side, the other person scores. First to 11 wins.

Badminton is one of the best racket sports for young children because the shuttlecock flies slowly and the racket is lightweight. It's much easier than tennis.

Play on a calm day. Wind makes badminton nearly impossible — the shuttlecock weighs almost nothing.

Youth rackets are shorter and lighter than adult rackets, making them much easier for kids to swing and control.

The footwork is where the real physical benefit is. Moving to position for each shot — forward, backward, side to side — is a full-body agility workout.

If rallying over a net is too hard, start by just hitting the shuttle back and forth without a net. Get the hitting skill first, add the net later.