DICK'S PRO TIPS: At this age, the most important thing for parents to remember is to have fun with it and don't take it too seriously. This age is all about learning the simple rules of the game and inspiring a love of the game that they'll want to take with them to the next age group. 

DICK'S PRO TIP: Players in Little League Tee Ball must use a bat carrying the USABat Standard (and no longer than 26"). Check the taper of the bat to make sure it has the USABat certification stamp.

DICK'S PRO TIP: You may be tempted to purchase a larger glove, so your child can grow into it over a season or two. But doing so can make it more difficult to catch and close the glove. It will also be heavier on the hand. Make sure your child can close the glove with ease. 4- and 5- year-olds may benefit from an 8.5" - 9.5" glove, while 6- and 7- year-olds might need a glove 10" or 10.5" in size

DICK'S PRO TIP: Like a glove, you may think purchasing a larger sized cleat may seem like a more sound investment. However, this will likely be the first piece of equipment they outgrow! A loose or ill-fitting cleat can lead to foot or ankle injury. Consult individual sizing charts by brand to find the proper size

DICK'S PRO TIP: Make sure your helmet sits about an inch above your player's eyebrow. To determine the right fit, place the helmet on your athlete's head and give it a few good shakes. If it moves around too much, go down a size, or buy a padding kit to guarantee a more accurate fit. Consult manufacturer sizing charts for guidance on proper size by a player's head circumference. A chin strap may also help provide a more snug fit

DICK'S PRO TIP: Once your child has outgrown t-balls for competitive play, it's not a bad idea to hang onto them and use them for indoor practice, where softer balls may be required

HOW TO BUY THE RIGHT SIZE TEE BALL BAT

The weight of a tee ball bat starts as low as 13 oz and will be as heavy as 18 oz. Use this tip to determine if the bat is too heavy for your young star. Hold the bat handle and extend his/her arm away from their side. If your child can't hold the bat extended for 30-45 seconds, the bat might be too heavy. 

OTHER IMPORTANT TAKEAWAYS

• Things like batting gloves and eye black aren’t necessary for tee ball - but kids still enjoy wearing them to emulate their favorite diamond stars
• While some safety equipment, like batting helmets, may not seem necessary at such a young age, at the very least, it can help young players develop the habit of adopting and using protective equipment in their game
• Some tee ball leagues and teams may provide certain pieces of equipment, such as batting tees, batting helmets and bats, but you should check with the league or your team coach beforehand, just to make sure
• Above all else, bring a positive mindset and be realistic about your child's skill sets. Kids at this age may get distracted. They will drop the ball. They might not play well. What you need to do is ensure that they are having fun and learning to love the game!