ECB All Stars Cricket is the introductory programme for children aged 5–8. Dynamos Cricket follows for players aged 8–11. Both programmes share the same philosophy: fast-moving, game-based activity that keeps every child involved, builds basic bat-ball skills, and — most importantly — makes cricket fun enough to come back for.
These session plans are written for All Stars and Dynamos volunteer coaches running 45-minute sessions. They cover all the core skill areas of both programmes: batting technique, throwing, catching, bowling, and fielding. Each session targets one theme with practices that work in a group of 8–20 players with limited equipment.
The most common mistake in All Stars and Dynamos coaching is over-explaining. Children at this age learn through doing, not listening. Keep instructions under 20 seconds, demonstrate clearly, and get them into the activity as fast as possible.
What's included in each session
Each session includes a fun energiser warm-up, two activity-based practices with simple coaching points, and a group game. Designed for large groups without specialist equipment. Printable session card included.
Sessions by age group
All Stars (U5-U8)
Batting Basics: Tap, Hit and Sprint!
Batting Basics: Tap and Run!
Catching Is Cool: Hands Ready, Eyes Up
Catching Is Cool
Hello Cricket: Your First Hit and Catch
Hello Cricket: Your First Hit!
Hello Cricket: Your First Hit and Catch
Hello Cricket: Your First Hit!
Team Fielding: Chase, Intercept and Return
Team Fielding Games
Throwing to a Target: Aim, Release and Accuracy
Throwing to a Target
Dynamos (U8-U11)
Bowling Action: Groove the Perfect Side-On Release
Bowling Action Fundamentals
Catching Confidence: Mastering the High Ball
Catching Confidence: High Catches
Ground Fielding: Clean Hands and Flat Throws
Ground Fielding and Throwing
Running Between Wickets: Call, Run, and Slide
Running Between Wickets
Straight Drive: Head Still, Bat Full
Batting: Straight Drive Technique
Coaching principles for All Stars (U5-U8)–Dynamos (U8-U11)
Every child hits every session
Set up multiple batting stations so all children get bat time in every session — not just one child while others field for 45 minutes. Use pairs (one batter, one feeder) on multiple stations running simultaneously. The batting sensation is what brings children back.
Soft ball, low stumps, no fear
Both All Stars and Dynamos use soft balls. This is deliberate — children who are afraid of the ball don't develop batting confidence. Reinforce that the ball is soft and won't hurt, and make sure any bouncing practices are aimed at the batting side, not at the face.
Short explosive activities, frequent transitions
Four minutes per activity is enough for All Stars and Dynamos. Rotate games frequently, give new team names, change the challenge slightly. Novelty sustains engagement at this age better than mastery depth.
Celebrate everything
Dropped catches, missed hits, wild throws — celebrate the attempt every time. The child who swings and misses with full commitment is doing exactly the right thing. The child who doesn't swing because they're afraid to fail is the one who needs your coaching attention.
Get a new session plan every Monday
Full access to all Cricket · All Stars (U5–U8) & Dynamos (U8–U11) sessions, animated diagrams, and printable sheets — for £3/month.
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