Many leagues for 6-8 year olds have debated when and how to introduce live pitching.
Back in 1999 we offered a Nose 2 Nose debate on the topic. The tabulated results of that vote can be accessed under the 'Community' menu above. Or click here.

Here, we present comments received from WebBall visitors during the voting... the pros and cons of coach-pitch versus pitching machines as a first step before kid=pitch.

If the decision is made to do coach-pitching, please review and use proper pitching mechanics not only for your own sake, but so the kids get comfortable with timing a pitcher's motion.

If you stay with machine pitch, the consider a device like the Ultimate Pitching Machine - controlled speed, closer to the height of a kid-pitch delivery, and not nearly as intimidating as a big pitching machine.

When you opt for kid-pitch, then consider the additional safety gear required - for both batter and pitcher.