Darts can be a sport for all ages, with the physical demands required for playing darts being very light, and darts rules being fairly easy to learn. The key to improving at darts for kids is practicing, developing counting skills, and gaining match practice. This means that children are able to play and develop their talent, allowing them to gain a skill that they can use and enjoy for the rest of their life.
Best Darts for Kids
One such tool that can be used is a magnetic dartboard and darts. This uses a magnetic board, with plastic darts that feature magnets at the end. However, the darts that come with these sets are often very large and are not very representative of real darts. The boards also do not have real wires, meaning that the scores can be hard to determine as the board is merely an image on a magnetic surface.
Magnetic Dartboards
An alternative option that is better for older players who have developed their throw and maths using a magnetic board is a safety dartboard. These boards have plastic bristles which allow darts that have plastic ends to be held.
This means that players can throw darts that are not sharp at a more realistic dartboard that has clearer segments. The darts, much like magnetic darts, do not cause much damage to anything if they hit it, meaning that it is safe to use either a safety set or a magnetic set next to a window or fragile item. These sets also ensure that bounce-outs are not dangerous.
Darts Setup for More Advanced Kids
When children are good enough to use a real dartboard, with the best dartboards being those which are made of sisal, and trusted to use real darts, the board can be put at a lower height to make up for their smaller stature. During initial practice, children can also stand closer to the board to make up for their power and strength deficit. Children should also play for fun, and not have too much pressure as it can ruin their experiences of the game.
Encouraging Competition Darts for Kids
There are various organisations around the world that support junior darts. The Junior Darts Corporation, or JDC, recommends that children play with a Winmau Greenzone Board, as it features a handicap system that allows players of different skill levels to play against each other in a fair manner. The JDC also has academies around the world that allow kids to get professional help and advice, as well as practice by playing against other children. The JDC also hosts tournaments that allow kids to gain experience.
Once children turn 16, they are allowed to compete on the PDC Development Tour, which is the Professional Darts Corporation’s junior tour that is open to players aged between 16 and 24. This will be the last step to developing a player before they can try to become a professional who is supported by one of the best dart brands.
