The more I research where kids should focus when shooting the more answers I find. So where generally should they focus -

Here is what I found on the web-
Just over the front of the rim
Front of rim
Back of rim
In the center of the nest(net) inside the rim

Thanks

OK, add 1 more.

The way I teach shooting is there is NO FOCUL POINT. You do not aim when you shoot or have any focul point. A habit is defined as execution with no thought. This decsribes the best shooters.

Aiming or having any area to actually focus on IMPLIES YOU HAVE TIME to do so. There is no time. There is only reaction and execution (at the higher levels; high school and college). And please note that great shooters shoot with their FEET. Perfect mechanics, great form, extension have no meaning if your feet are not ready.

I would encourage you to work on shooting mechanics with NO BASKET (How old are these kids?). Lots of reps against the wall or back and forth between team mates. Encourage and teach the proper form. I estimate that 4000 to 5000 repetitions are required to build solid, repeateable shooting mechanics. When you do get to the hoop to shoot, reinforce constantly these mechanics, emphasizing extension. Good luck.

I like to teach that they must focus completely on their body movements within thier form. Good form aims the basketball themselves. However, most players think about make or miss. The more you get the player to focus on thier body movements the more consistent they become automatically. You will know how focused they are on it when they start pointing out their own mistakes.

I could add this too...... muscle memory... which comes from a lot of reps.......... at the end of each day - summer camps/shooting camps we had a fun contest.... shooting free throws with your eyes closed. This forces you to concentrate on your form and visualize the ball going in.

I agree with shooting against the wall.... I did that with some varsity players that were struggling with form - doing that takes all the pressure off making the shot and helps to develop the proper form.

You guys are pretty good.

I often teach shooting by having the shooter close his eyes, especially from the foul line. One of my biggest things with shooting is that shooting is not a visual activity, it is kinesthetic. It is done by feel. Enough repetition gives you rhythm and release point. Nothing else is important.

Don,

Did you ever try shooting with your eyes closed yourself? Its amazing what you can do if you just trust what you have learned.

At the risk of sounding arrogant, I do it all the tie and shoot about 80%. It is a great way of getting people to listen to you when you speak about shooting. When I have more time, i will relay a story to you in the same vane.

80% is amazing... why don't you work with the NBA? Some of them stink!

I have a few of those too... one of the funniest things that happened - was showing 6-8th graders how to shoot... the form thing... emphasizing that the guide hand has nothing to do with the shot.. they were all sitting around half court and I was just outside the arc ....... I turned dribbled once and brought the ball up with one hand and shot it... ALL NET.... I got all these ooooss and aaaahhs..... I turned around and said this to them.... DON'T ASK ME TO DO THAT AGAIN. LOL
They all laughed but they did get the point.

Small sample size. I stop when I make one. I regularly make the first one. It never takes me more than 2 to make 1.

I do work with NBA guys.

How come you couldn't help Shaq? hahaha

Thats good your way, that way you never look bad.