Football for Kids

Football is a tough and demanding game when played at its highest levels. By the time a young player gets to high school, coaches demand the most out of them and the game is a test of one's mental, physical and emotional strength. But when played by youngsters, it is a game of exhilaration and joy. That's what should be emphasized as youngsters learn the basics of the game.

  1. Learning to pass

    • Teach children the proper way to throw a football. Align the fingers of the throwing hand with the laces. Raise the ball up to the level of the target and find your target. Step with your left foot and throw the ball with your right arm. As you extend your right arm, make sure you release the ball with a smart snap of your wrist and then follow through.

    Learning to catch

    • Catch the ball with good form. Whether kids will be playing in a game or are just playing catch, they need to know the proper way to do it. Give the passer a solid target by putting your hands in front of you and try to catch the ball in your hands. Many receivers will try to let the ball come to their bodies, but that is the wrong way to catch it. Instead of catching the ball, the ball will hit the receiver's uniform and equipment and bounce off him. That makes it much tougher to catch. By learning to catch the ball with his hands out front, the receiver learns the proper way to receive the ball.

    Keep it light

    • Make it an enjoyable experience. There's no need to scream and shout at young players who are first taking up the game. Football is an intimidating sport, and a young player who makes a mistake needs to be encouraged and not singled out for making an error. A player who is just starting to play needs to enjoy it. He needs to feel proud and happy. Point out the great moments. Pat young players on the back for their effort, not their successes. There is plenty of time later on to point out specifics and errors as players get older.

    Blocking and tackling

    • Teach the players the basics of the game. In addition to rules such as offsides, holding and pass interference, players need to know the basics of the game such as blocking, tackling and trying hard. In order for running backs and receivers to make big plays, they need blockers to knock potential tacklers down and out of the way. Young players need to learn how to block the proper way. This means leading with your forearms and shoulders and not your head. The same goes for tackling. Young players need to learn that tackling requires effort and great form. Put your shoulder in the ball carrier's midsection and drive. Don't lead with your helmet.

    Holding on to the ball

    • Teach players how to hold the ball without dropping it. This is essential for anyone who wants to play running back or receiver. A running back cannot fumble. A player needs to carry the ball in his strong arm across his chest wrapped tightly by making sure the index finger is hooked over the point of the ball. Raise the ball up to shoulder level. Doing this will make sure the player carries the ball with leverage and strength.