I remember a discussion awhile ago about this, but I can't find it.
Here's what we do. Assuming we want a good lead that puts us in position to steal, we have the heels of both feet on 1st base. Then as soon as the pitcher toes the rubber and starts to look in for the sign, we go RIGHT, LEFT, PIVOT (caps because they're large steps). After the pivot, they take two shuffle-type steps, where the feet are barely off the ground, one at a time.
This should put them in an optimal distance from 1st base, where they can cross-over and dive back to the bag if the pitcher comes over.
I guess we have plenty to discuss right there. I want to talk about the first step or two when breaking, but let's hold that though until we get through the lead.
People have told me never to take steps(right/left) off of first (just to side-step the entire lead), but I believe any kid can quickly turn and basically fall back onto first before the ball gets there (as long as his eyes are on the pitcher).
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