How to Help Your Kids Get Better at Soccer

All parents want to do their best to guide their children effectively. That’s why it helps to turn to proven strategies supported by research to provide the best support possible. Here are some practical tips to help you excel in your role as a soccer parent.

Support Without Pushing

It’s understandable to want your child to excel. However, pushing too much can lead to them losing interest in the sport or experiencing burnout early on. Rather than focusing on wins or losses, try asking what their favorite moment from the game was. Instead of pointing out areas for improvement, ask them to share a moment when they felt proud of themselves.

Rather than comparing them to another player, encourage them to reflect on how they supported a teammate during the game. The most important thing is to let their own passion and love for the game drive them forward. Get a soccer coach in Moraga, CA to teach your kids the right approach both on and off the field.

Let Them Decide

Encouraging your child to make their own decisions fosters a stronger passion for the game. Give them the freedom to choose how much they want to practice, which position they want to play, and the level they’re comfortable competing at.

This not only builds their sense of responsibility but also helps them grow more independent. You can support this by helping them explore the club pathways. Connect with your club director and coach to learn about the club’s structure, the different levels, and the opportunities available. Present these options to your child so they can take ownership of their choices and have the confidence to shape their own soccer journey.

Encouragement From the Sidelines

Parents should focus on offering praise and encouragement to their children during a game, even if the outcome isn’t going as hoped. Extending this supportive attitude to the entire team can be highly motivating, inspiring the players to put in more effort thanks to the positive reinforcement.

Staying calm while watching a game helps players remain concentrated and avoids causing them embarrassment. Instead of shouting directions from the sidelines, maintaining a composed and supportive demeanor is far more effective in providing guidance and encouragement.

Paying Attention to Their Thoughts

Discussing a game with your child plays a vital role in helping them grow in their soccer experience. Parents bring a unique perspective from watching on the sidelines, which makes their input valuable. However,  allow the child to take the lead in reflecting on what they feel went well and what didn’t. Listening to your child’s thoughts first is crucial, and then you can share your observations and suggestions for how they might improve.

Photo by Adrià Crehuet Cano onUnsplash

Endnote

Improving as a soccer player takes commitment, regular practice, and a well-rounded approach. It covers physical fitness, technical abilities, mental strength, and tactical awareness. By applying these strategies and staying focused on ongoing progress, you can boost your skills and find greater joy in the game.