• The main focus at this age group is the enjoyment of playing soccer.
• Allow the players to discover techniques and ways to make things work for themselves.
• Remember that children at this age are still physically developing so will not be able to perform all skills with correct techniques.
• Children at this age will learn through playing.
• Do not be too pushy with their tasks. Children will complete them in their own time as they all learn at different speeds.
• Try to keep instructions limited and quick to keep the attention of the players.
• Always demonstrate the activity or skill that they will be performing. Children at this age will mimic actions as a way of learning.
• Try to keep a ball with you to take part in the activity at the same time, allowing players to see and copy your actions.
• Encourage player creativity in games.
• Allow the players to experience an environment where they can learn at their own speed and through fun.
• This is where players will begin to learn to love soccer so ensure that they have a fun experience!
• Be prepared to adapt away from your plans if things aren't working. The players having a ball at their feet and a smile on their face are the two most important things at this stage of their soccer development.
• Aim for 10-15 minutes of free game play at the end of each session.

Key Words / Soccer Terminology

• Dribbling: Keeping the ball close and kicking it with both feet while running
• Passing: Kicking the ball to a teammate
• Shooting: Kicking the ball with power towards a target
• Turning: Changing direction with the ball and keeping the ball close
• Changes of speed: Being able to dribble with the ball under control at different speeds