Diving for the ball.  Huh! This is something that is just not taught.  I do agree that is a lot an instinct type action, but it can be taught.  I start working with my players at the age of 6 diving for balls.  Why Not?  When I play the game I get such a rush from diving for a ball and robbing the batter of a hit.  Catching or fielding a ball that is well out of my reach and coming up with it to then turn around and throw him or her out.  Bam!  Start working on this early.  I compare it alot like sliding.  Many ball players are afraid to slide, but it is not so much they are afraid it will hurt but of the unknown.  So you teach it slow and easy with some simple drills and work from there.

Start your player on his or her knees and toss a wiffle ball to there sides so that way if they miss it or land on it the ball will not hurt.  Have them react and dive for the ball.  I am telling you they will have so much fun and they'll be hooked, getting further and furher for the ball. ENJOY DIVING!