Franklin Sports Grow-with-Me Kids Baseball Batting Tee + Stand Set Review

If you're a parent or guardian of a young aspiring baseball or softball player, you know how important it is to give them the right tools to develop their skills. The Franklin Sports Grow-with-Me Kids Baseball Batting Tee + Stand Set is a fantastic product designed to help young children learn the basics of baseball or teeball. In this detailed review, I'll share my personal experience with this set and why I think it's worth considering for your young athlete.

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First Impressions

When I first received the Franklin Sports Grow-with-Me Kids Baseball Batting Tee, I was impressed by how comprehensive the set was. It includes everything you need to get started: a batting tee, a 21-inch plastic bat, and four baseballs with self-stick covers. I loved the fact that it came with multiple balls because, let's face it, kids are going to lose a few during practice sessions.

The set is well-packaged, and assembly was straightforward. No tools were required, which was a relief for someone like me who isn't particularly handy. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, and within a few minutes, we had the tee set up and ready for action.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about the design is how thoughtfully it caters to young children. The Grow-with-Me feature is a standout. For the youngest players, the hanging tee design is genius. It suspends a ball anywhere from 18" to 26" from the ground, using self-stick technology, making it easy for young hitters to practice their hand-eye coordination. This feature was perfect for my three-year-old niece, who was just getting started with teeball.

As children grow and their skills improve, you can remove the hanging attachment to transform the set into a traditional batting tee. The traditional tee adjusts from 25" to 36" in height, which means this set can grow with your child and remain useful for years. It's a cost-effective solution for parents who don't want to keep buying new equipment as their child grows.

The materials used in the set are durable yet lightweight. The batting tee is made from polypropylene, which is sturdy enough to withstand the inevitable knocks and bumps from enthusiastic young players. The plastic bat is lightweight but feels solid in hand, making it perfect for small hands to grip easily.

Performance

Once we had the set assembled, it was time to put it to the test. My niece was excited to start hitting the balls off the tee, and I could immediately see the benefits of the hanging tee design. It allowed her to focus on her swing without the frustration of missing the ball entirely, which can be discouraging for beginners.

The self-stick technology of the balls is also a great feature. It helps keep the balls in place on the tee, which is especially helpful for younger children who are still developing their motor skills. Over time, as they get better at making contact, they'll gain confidence and be ready to transition to the traditional tee setup.

We also tried the traditional tee setup with my six-year-old nephew, who has been playing teeball for a couple of years. He found the adjustable height feature very useful, as it allowed him to practice hitting at different angles and heights. This versatility makes the set suitable for children at various stages of their teeball journey.

Durability

Durability is always a concern when it comes to kids' sports equipment, but I'm pleased to report that the Franklin Sports Grow-with-Me Kids Baseball Batting Tee has held up well. We've used it for several months now, and it shows no signs of wear and tear. The materials are robust, and the construction is solid, so I have confidence that it will last through multiple seasons of play.

The set's portability is another plus. It's lightweight enough to carry to the park or a friend's house, making it a convenient option for outdoor play. The components are easy to disassemble and reassemble, so you can store it away when not in use without taking up too much space.

Price and Value

One of the best aspects of this set is its affordability. Priced reasonably, it offers excellent value for money considering the quality and versatility it provides. With the ability to grow with your child and cater to different skill levels, it's a one-time purchase that can serve your young athlete for years. Plus, the inclusion of a bat and multiple balls means you won't have to buy additional accessories, which is always a bonus.

Customer Feedback

Looking at customer reviews on platforms like Amazon, it's evident that many parents and guardians share my positive experience. The set has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on over 14,000 ratings, which speaks volumes about its popularity and effectiveness. Many reviewers praise its durability and the ease with which it can be adjusted to suit different ages and skill levels.

Some users mentioned that the self-stick balls can lose their stickiness over time, but this is a minor issue and can be remedied by cleaning the balls and the tee regularly. Overall, the consensus is that the Franklin Sports Grow-with-Me Kids Baseball Batting Tee is a reliable and worthwhile investment for any young teeball player.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Franklin Sports Grow-with-Me Kids Baseball Batting Tee + Stand Set is a fantastic product for introducing young children to the world of baseball and teeball. Its thoughtful design, durability, and affordability make it an excellent choice for parents looking to support their child's athletic development.

Whether your child is just starting or has been playing for a while, this set can accommodate their needs and help them hone their skills. With its adjustable features and included accessories, it's a comprehensive package that offers great value for money. If you're in the market for a high-quality, versatile batting tee set, I highly recommend giving the Franklin Sports Grow-with-Me Kids Baseball Batting Tee a try. It's a purchase you won't regret, and your young athlete will thank you for it!

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