Parent Playbook: 3 fun ways to Practice Basketball with your kids.

Mark Aquino
Sep 25, 2025
2 min read

Parents ask us all the time: “How can I help my kid with basketball at home if I’m not a coach?”

We think what works best is to:

keep it simple,

keep it fun.

don't call it a workout. (trust us! this is important)

You don't need fancy drills, or a coaching background. All you need is a ball, a hoop (or even a wall/driveway), and a few minutes of play.

Here are 3 games you can play with your child that build skills and make memories:

1. Beat the Buzzer

Set a timer for 30 seconds.
Your kid tries to make as many layups or shots as they can before the buzzer.
You cheer, rebound, or race them if you want to join.--> This helps kids play faster and stay calm under pressure.

2. Star Drill

Pick 5 spots (like the left corner, left wing, top of the key, right wing, right corner --the shape of a star).
Take turns shooting from each spot. 5 sh
Add fun rules: call “bank shot,” dribble twice before you shoot, or use your weak hand.----> This builds confidence from different spots on the court.

3. Dribble Tag

Everyone has a basketball.
Dribble your ball while trying to knock someone else’s away.
If you lose your ball, do 5 jumping jacks to get back in.
---> This builds ball-handling, quickness, and awareness.

Quick Workout Plan for Parents & Kids

Here’s a 15–20 minute “family practice” you can try this week:

Warm-Up (3 minutes): Dribble while walking around the driveway/yard. Switch hands often.
Beat the Buzzer (3 minutes): 3 rounds of 30 seconds each.
Around the World (7 minutes): Play until someone makes all the spots.
Dribble Tag (3 minutes): Play 2–3 rounds.
High-Five & Done (30 seconds): End with a cheer, handshake, or silly celebration!

4th Quarter Thoughts

you don’t need long practices (at least right now) or fancy drills to help your kid get better at basketball. Even just a few minutes of play each day can boost their confidence, focus, and love for the game.

The kid who loves to play basketball will play more basketball.