Correction of sidearm throwing

Question
My 7 year old son has developed a bad habit of throwing sidearm (not pitching).  This is impacting distance and accuracy.  Our rec league coaches and I have tried to correct this, but it just does not stick. Any ideas?

Answer
hi larry
thanks for the question.

i will list a couple of things to do, but keep in mind, you must make it fun for your son to be doing these things and enjoy being with his dad.

1. feet spread about shoulder level apart, knees bent, ball in hand, and hand in glove in front of chest. this is the ready position.
when you say break have him go thumb down past belt and rotate up to ball up position. elbow at should level. have him throw to wall from here so you can stand near him and help him throw.

2. play lots of long range catch with him. it is hard to throw long distance if he does not throw properly.

3. show him video clips of baseball players throwing from shortstop or outfield and demo how they are throwing. he should begin to see that sidearem is not good.

hope this helps. enjoy the time with your son.
steve