Soccer Guides / Skills and training
Tips for youth players and soccer parents
How kids learn soccer best, what small-sided games are, how to support a young player from the sideline, and when to think about specializing.
Fun first
Children stay in sports they enjoy. Most youth coaching programs put fun, lots of touches on the ball and friendships ahead of winning. A child who loves the game will practice on their own, and that unstructured play is where many skills develop.
Small-sided games
Many national associations use smaller teams on smaller fields for younger players. Exact formats vary by country and age, but a common progression looks like this:
| Approximate age | Typical format | Ball size |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 to under 8 | 3v3 or 4v4, no goalkeepers or small goals | 3 |
| Under 9 to under 10 | 5v5 to 7v7 | 4 |
| Under 11 to under 12 | 7v7 to 9v9 | 4 |
| Under 13 and older | 11v11 | 5 |
Smaller games mean more touches, more decisions and more goals for every child. Check your own league for its formats and rules on heading.
Skills to focus on by age
- Young children: running with the ball, changing direction, simple 1v1 games, kicking and stopping the ball.
- Around 8 to 12: first touch, passing with both feet, dribbling moves, basic positions and team play. Often called the "golden age" for learning technique.
- Teenagers: tactical understanding, physical development, position-specific skills and mental resilience.
Advice for parents
- Cheer effort, not just results. Praise hard work, bravery and teamwork.
- Let the coach coach. Conflicting instructions from the sideline confuse players.
- Respect the referee. Many youth referees are teenagers learning the job.
- The car ride home: ask "Did you have fun?" and "What did you learn?" instead of analyzing mistakes.
- Encourage free play in the backyard or park, with friends and without adults organizing everything.
Multiple sports and specialization
Many sports scientists recommend that children play a variety of sports before specializing in one, often not before the early teenage years. Playing several sports builds broad athletic skills and can reduce overuse injuries and burnout.
Practicing at home
A simple 15-minute home routine:
- Juggling, trying to beat your record.
- Wall passes with both feet (see passing).
- A dribbling move of the week (see dribbling moves).
- Ten shots with each foot at a target.
Equipment basics
Shin guards are required in matches. Soccer cleats (boots) should fit well with room for growth of about a thumb's width, and the right type depends on the playing surface. See our gear guide.
Make sure young players drink water regularly, wear sunscreen in summer and stop training in lightning. Coaches should have a clear plan for injuries and emergencies.
