[SuperSriver]

Hi coach,
I am pleased to hear that you have a "player" aged 4, and I would like to encourage you to care for children at that age. Be aware that their "table tennis"-"training" must be totally different from the way of practising usually known in clubs. The typical situation - playing 1:1, using a normal bat, a table and a net - should be an exception ! Instead of that, you should use toys - everything that moves or can be moved is good. Use lots of balls, small and big ones, light and heavier ones, green, red, pink and blue balls. Built landscapes, where the child can move, can climb over things, can jump little heights, can be quirly and active and can, a second later, relax.

These ideas require a lot of work, but if you can manage it, it is possible to build up a "table tennis" group with children aged 4 to 6. I did it, and I know it works.

If you have a "normal" training group and just one very young child, give him he opportunity to take part in the play if the child wants it. Never be demanding. Probably after a short time the child wants something else or a rest. Let it do what it wants to do. Organize some toys or balls for the child to play with. Try to keep the child happy.

Be aware of your great responsibilty !

Good luck,
SuperSriver