Kickstart your child’s basketball journey with simple, fun bounce-pass drills that boost control, timing, and confidence. These activities are designed for kids aged 5-12 and can be done in a driveway, gym, or park with a soft basketball and plenty of space.
What is a bounce pass? A bounce pass is a pass that bounces once before reaching the teammate. It helps shorter players and players behind defenders by staying at chest height and improving accuracy and control.
Preparation and Safety
- Use a soft basketball appropriate for age (Size 3-5).
- Clear space of at least 15 feet in all directions.
- Supervise to prevent rough play and injuries.
Bounce Pass Drills for Kids
These drills focus on form, footwork, and passing accuracy. Start with slow, controlled reps, then progress to faster speeds.
Drill 1: Wall Bounce Pass to a Target
Goal: Build touch and accuracy while standing still. How-to: Stand about 6 feet from a wall with a soft ball. Bend knees, hold the ball with both hands, and push off with your stride to release a bounce pass toward a marked target on the wall at chest height.
- Place a target (tape mark or small target) on the wall at chest height.
- Stand about 6 feet away, feet shoulder-width apart.
- Pass, ensuring the ball bounces about 2/3 of the wall distance before reaching the target.
- Catches with soft hands, resets, and repeats 10-12 times.
Drill 2: Partner Bounce Pass to Chest
Goal: Improve passing accuracy to a moving target. Setup: Two players stand 6-8 feet apart. Player A sends a bounce pass to Player B’s chest, then they switch roles. Emphasize a low, controlled bounce.
- Face each other, feet shoulder-width apart.
- Receiver raises hands to chest height and communicates target height.
- Passer uses a clean release and follows through to the target.
- Switch roles after 12 passes each.
Drill 3: Move-and-Pass Bounce Drill
Goal: Learn to pass while moving. Use a short zig-zag course with cones and have a coach or partner deliver bounce passes to a moving receiver.
- Place 4-6 cones in a short zig-zag path about 8-10 feet apart.
- Runner moves along the path, catching passes at chest height from the passer.
- Focus on timing, footwork, and keeping the ball low and controlled.
Tip: Use a smaller bounce pass for defenders who stand tall; overshot passes can bounce too long. Talk to your child to adjust technique for different players.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Passing too high — keep passes at chest height to help catching easier.
- Not stepping into the pass — a common problem that weakens accuracy.
- Throwing too hard — control is more important than power for kids.
- Forgetting to follow through — follow-through matters to ensure a smooth pass.
Tips for Parents and Coaches
- Encourage slow, deliberate passes before speed and power.
- Let kids choose the pace; celebrate small improvements to keep them motivated.
- Use positive feedback and simple cues: “elbow in,” “step into the pass,” “follow through to the target.”
- Keep drills short (5–10 minutes) and fun to maintain focus.
Official Resources
For more on official coaching resources and fundamentals, visit:
Note: Always adapt drills to your child’s age, size, and ability. Safety first: choose appropriate surfaces, keep sessions in good weather, and hydrate.