It’s okay if your child has never kicked a soccer ball before. That first class is a chance to try something new and learn a little along the way.
Look for a class that starts with the basics
In a class for younger kids, the coach might show them how to move the ball with a few little kicks and stop it with the bottom of their foot. Then each child gets a chance to try it at their own pace. Look for a coach who keeps the instructions short and gives kids time to try again.
Older beginners can learn the same way. A coach might show them how to pass to a partner or stop the ball when it comes back to them. If your child is starting in their teens, they can still begin with a group that teaches those skills from scratch.
What does a class look like at different ages?
Around age 3, a class might involve little more than getting comfortable with a ball and trying one short activity at a time. Around age 6, practice can have a little more structure, like taking turns dribbling between cones or passing with a partner. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that most children have the basic movement skills for simple organized sports by age 6.
If your child is still a baby or toddler, you can roll a soft ball back and forth on the floor. Kicking a ball is a CDC milestone at age 2.
Give them a chance to try one class
If the program offers a trial session, that’s a good place to start. It’s okay if your child wants to watch for a bit before joining in. On the way home, you can ask what they liked or whether they’d like to go back. Some kids will tell you right away. Others will show you by asking to kick the ball again later.
Soccer programs at Mississauga United FC
We welcome children as young as 3. Future Stars is for ages 4–5, and our Development Academy welcomes beginners ages 6–9 and 10–14. Competitive Rep teams run from U8 through U14, with placement by tryout. As the club grows, we hope to field teams at every age group.
