Sportsmanship
Allie shakes hands, cheers for teammates, and learns that how you play matters more than the score.
More than a bedtime story
The Allie the Alligator series is written to give kids the confidence and vocabulary they need before their first practice — and to give grown-ups a warm, funny read-aloud they'll actually look forward to.
What the books teach
Confidence
Every swing — hit or miss — is a chance to try again. Allie models bravery for kids stepping up for the first time.
Teamwork
From the dugout to the outfield, Allie shows that baseball is a team sport built on trust and encouragement.
Listening
Coach Croc's tips help Allie focus, follow directions, and turn instructions into action.
Basic Baseball Rules
Bases, outs, innings, and positions — introduced simply so kids feel ready before their first game.
🧤 Coaching Drill
"Chomp" the ball
The very first catching practice for parents and coaches. Teach kids to receive the ball like an alligator — soft hands, watch it in, and chomp down to secure the catch.
Allie Chomps the Baseball
Watch the chomp catch in action before you run it with your kids.
★ The Chomp Catch
- 1
Watch the ball in
Keep your eyes on the ball all the way into your glove — eyes never leave it until it lands.
- 2
Let it get deep
Let the ball travel deep into the pocket of the glove. Don't reach out and snatch at it.
- 3
Chomp down
Close your glove around the ball — chomp down like an alligator snapping its jaws shut!
- 4
Cover with two hands
Put your other hand on top of the glove to keep the ball from popping out.
★ Why it matters
- Helps you catch more balls
- Keeps the ball from popping out
- Builds confidence
- Makes you a better teammate
Coach's tip
“Chomp the ball — soft hands, watch it in, and secure the catch!”
Start with short, easy tosses. Have kids say “chomp” out loud each time they close the glove. It turns a mechanical skill into a fun, repeatable habit they'll remember on game day.
⚾ Soft hands. Watch it in. Chomp and win!
Coaches: use Allie in your dugout
Read a chapter before practice to set the tone. Pair each book with the matching printable — the First Tee Ball checklist and Rookie Certificate work great for end-of-season celebrations.