How to Teach Kids About Football & Teamwork

Children who watch football with their parents or older siblings often dream of being on that field at one time or another. They pretend to be Brett Favre or Peyton Manning throwing a touchdown pass, or being the receiver and scoring the touchdown. The desire to learn presents instructional opportunities for dads, moms, brothers, sisters, uncles and coaches. However, teaching football and teamwork to kids at any age presents challenges and rewards. Whatever kind of football you coach, the key elements remain the same: engagement, motivation and enjoyment.

Things You'll Need

  • Footballs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Explain the fundamentals. Teach the rules and objectives of the game. Watching a college or professional football game in person or on TV may be the best way to show kids what to do, because Xs and Os on a chalkboard can be boring and confusing.

    • 2

      Clarify the four-quarter system and the number of opportunities (downs) a team receives when it has the ball. Teach them the scoring rules: Each touchdown is worth six points, field goals are worth three points, two-point conversions and safeties give teams two points and the extra point after a touchdown is worth one point. (SEE REFERENCE 2)

    • 3

      Describe the role of each position. After becoming aware of the duties of each player, the child will have a better idea of what position interests him or her the most. With this information you can focus on the specific needs of this child or a group as a whole.

    • 4

      According to the Guide to Coaching Sports website, the first drills should be in a non-competitive setting and solely focus on mechanics. (SEE REFERENCE 1) After mastering the basics, turn to game scenarios in order to reinforce the lessons. (SEE REFERENCE 1). Try not to spend too much time on one fundamental; doing so can bore some athletes and lead to lack of interest and poor performance.

    • 5

      Emphasize teamwork. Clarify that everyone's role on the field connects directly to the success of the offense or defense. Being aware that another player depends on them for success gives your child a sense of responsibility and accountability. Knowing that they contribute to the success of the team provides a sense of pride, accomplishment and belonging. The teamwork involved in football presents an opportunity for building character. (SEE REFERENCE 2)

    • 6

      Separate your team into smaller groups during practice, such as quarterbacks and receivers, linemen, running backs and special teams. Putting an experienced player in charge of a group gives that athlete the opportunity to guide the others and enhance leadership capabilities. (SEE REFERENCE 1) This lets a team to bond in smaller cohesive units while allowing players to learn specific skills for their respective positions.

    • 7

      Enforce respect. Although football should be fun, discipline is vital. Firmly review expectations, such as good sportsmanship when winning or losing a game. Instilling a code of conduct establishes a positive and encouraging tone.