Keep it fun, focused and full of energy--these drills are more than just practice, they are stepping stones to better play.
Whether your child has just laced up their boots or is already bursting with energy on the pitch, practice is key to progress. But repetition doesn't have to be boring. The best football drills for kids are simple, engaging, and full of movement--perfect for building coordination, technique, and a love for the game.
Here's a guide to some age-appropriate drills that encourage confidence, teamwork, and skill development, without overwhelming younger players.
1. Dribbling Maze
This one's a favourite for many coaches working with younger age groups. Set up a maze using training cones, and have your child navigate the ball through them using small, controlled touches. The goal is not speed, but precision.
Skills Developed: Ball control, focus, and footwork
Tip: Time each run and encourage beating the previous score to keep it exciting.
2. Mini Goal Shooting
Kids love to score, and a portable soccer goal for kids makes this one easy to set up in the backyard or park. Use size-appropriate goals to keep the challenge realistic.
Drill: Place a few cones at different angles around the goal and let the child shoot from each cone in sequence.
Variation: Add a moving target or encourage use of their non-dominant foot.
Skills Developed: Shooting accuracy, balance, and technique
3. Pass and Move Relay
Pair up players (or do this with a parent) and create a small grid. After a pass, each player runs to a new cone or space before receiving the ball again. Movement is as important as the pass.
Skills Developed: Passing, spatial awareness, and fitness
Why it works: Encourages thinking on the move--not just standing and waiting.
4. Shark Attack
This drill works best in groups but can be modified for solo play. Mark a rectangular area and assign one "shark" who tries to kick other players' balls our of the zone. Once a ball is out, the player must do a challenge to re-enter (eg five toe touches).
Skills Developed: Defensive tactics, ball shielding, agility
Bonus: It's full of laughs and unpredictability--perfect for keeping young players engaged.
5. Target Practice
Set up small targets (cones, plastic bottles, or even a water bottle) inside the goal or against a wall. Give points for each successful hit.
Skills Developed: Accuracy, power control, confidence
Helpful gear: Having a practice training goal set up helps give this one a 'real match' feel.
6. Dribble and Shoot Circuit
Create a small obstacle course that ends in a shot on goal. Combine cones to weave through, a small hurdle or marker to hop over, then take a shot at the goal. Repeat from different angles.
Skills Developed: Transition play, agility, finishing
Why it helps: Teaches kids to recover and react, not just perform isolated skills.
7. Keep-Up Challenge
If your child is old enough to try juggling the ball, this challenge is great for coordination and control. See how many keep-ups they can do, with encouragement to beat their best.
Variation: Count even knee bounces or thigh touches as part of the total.
Skills Developed: Focus, timing, balance
ENCOURAGING PROGRESS WITH THE RIGHT SUPPORT
Consistency matters. Even short sessions a few times a week can lead to visible improvement. Just remember: the goal is to enjoy the game while learning, not to push too hard. Let kids lead the pace. Praise effort, not just skill.
Bonus tip: Include a first-aid kit in your regular football bag. Bumps, scrapes, and minor cuts are part of active play, and being prepared helps keep sessions stress-free.
When to Use Drills
- During off-season to maintain sharpness
- At home or local parks to supplement team training
- With friends or family for more social end playful practice
- As warm-up activities before matches or scrimmages
CREATING A POSITIVE PRACTICE ENVIRONMENT
Here are a few more simple ways to keep your child motivated while working through football drills:
- Keep drills short and focused (5-10 minutes max per activity)
- Mix high-energy drills with lower-intensity skill builders
- End each session with a fun challenge or mini game
- Track progress visibly (eg scores, completed drills)
- Allow for regular water breaks with a personal water bottle to build good habits
Football drills for kids should never feel like a chore. With a balance of structure and fun, young players not only pick up essential skills but also develop confidence and resilience. Choose drills that match their age and personality--and don't forget to celebrate every little victory along the way.
Whether you're using a training goal, marking drills with cones, or keeping a first-aid kit close by, the right tools support consistent play. But at the heart of it all, it's about time well spent, growing their love for the sport one kick at a time.