Junior and family squash
How to play squash with children and family.
A practical guide to junior and family squash, including age-appropriate equipment, group sessions, safeguarding and making the first visit enjoyable.
In short
Children and families can play squash through junior coaching, family sessions, schools, informal rallies and adapted games. The ball, court area, pace, language and goals should be matched to the child, with appropriate adult supervision and safeguarding arrangements.
Published by Squash Dog, a trading style of Fagan Consulting Limited. Reviewed 21 September 2026
Coverage note
This is general information. Parents, guardians, schools, clubs and coaches must agree the current supervision, safeguarding, access and venue arrangements for each child.
Start with fun and success
A first session does not need to look like an adult match. Children may begin with catching, rolling, throwing, target games, rebound activities or short rallies. A larger or more bouncy ball can give more time and make success more likely.
Junior equipment and court use
- Use a racket the child can control comfortably.
- Choose a ball with enough bounce for the child's age, confidence and court temperature.
- Use a smaller target or a reduced court area where that helps.
- Wear clean, non-marking shoes where the venue requires them.
- Use appropriate protective eyewear. England Squash states that eye protection is required for under-19 players in competition and recommends it more widely.
Safeguarding and adult involvement
Parents and guardians should know who is delivering the session, where it takes place, how supervision works and how the child will be contacted. Children should not be directed into unmonitored private coach-to-child communication through Squash Dog. Use the club, school, coach or authorised organisation's safeguarding process.
Family formats that work
- Parent and child cooperative rallies.
- Short family games with a bouncier ball.
- Rotating stations where children can practise without waiting too long.
- Family doubles only where the court and format are suitable and safe.
- Mixed-age activities where the coach can adjust targets and pace.
Questions about junior squash
Frequently asked questions
What age can children start squash?
There is no single starting age for every child. Introductory activities can be adapted to age, size, coordination, confidence and the coach's programme. Ask the organiser what age group and equipment the session is designed for.
Can parents play squash with their children?
Yes. Cooperative games, family sessions and age-appropriate rallies can make squash a shared activity. The adult should prioritise a playable ball and enjoyable exchange over hitting hard or keeping an adult score.
Do children need squash goggles?
England Squash states that eye protection must be worn by under-19 players in competition and recommends it during training, practice and other non-competitive activities.
Primary sources
Use these organisations for the current authoritative detail.