How to Make a Child a Better Soccer Player

The United States Youth Soccer Association reported that over 3.2 million kids between the ages of 5 and 19 played soccer in 2009. Whether you're a new coach with a stable of players or a parent with just one player to improve, there are a few things that you can do to help children hone their game.

  1. Focus on Games

    • Encourage children to play games whenever possible while practicing. If you are a parent, suggest that your child call up a few friends and get a pick-up game going. Because playing is more fun than working at drills, children are likely to practice longer if they are at play. Games are preferable to drills because a good game will keep budding young soccer stars playing at game pace.

    Be Inclusive

    • Select games that as inclusive as possible. Use games that do not eliminate players. Make sure that all players touch the ball as frequently as possible. Not only will inclusive practices help to instill a healthy sense of sportsmanship in young players, they will also ensure that each player has a chance to improve through practice.

    Drill When Necessary

    • Emphasize drills when there aren't enough players for a game. Although games are preferable, the right drills can help a child build a set of skills and contribute to better play within both practice and real games. Drills should focus on skills used in actual games, such as dribbling, passing, shooting, trapping, defending and juggling the ball. When a child must practice solo, encourage him to use a wall to bounce the ball off of.

    Healthy Habits

    • Make sure that your child is practicing healthy habits off the field to improve his overall game; undernourished or tired players do not play at their best. Website Kids First Soccer recommends a meal of 65 to 70 percent complex carbohydrates and light in fat no later than four or five hours before a game, and drink either water or a sugary drink while playing. Children should also be well-rested to maximize practice time and in-game performance; they should limit caffeine intake and late-night television or computer usage, and making sure that teens get at least nine hours of sleep each night.