As adults, we must understand that a 5-6 year old sees the game of soccer very differently than us. To be a successful we must understand this. For a 5-6 year old the soccer ball is not a ball we kick to score goals with. It is a “toy”, and it is “my toy”. It is not uncommon to see players constantly searching out their “toy” at any point during your practice (even during scrimmages). This behavior is OK, don’t be alarmed by it. We find that when 5-6 year olds get the ball they dribble in any direction while their teammates and opponents attempt to get the ball off them. Again this is normal behavior. The player on the ball is trying to keep his/her “toy” away from everybody and the remaining players on the field, want their “toy” back.

The games that we play at this age group incorporate the player’s new “toy” in a fun and dynamic way. The players are still learning the game of soccer, but we are introducing in a way that they can truly understand and enjoy.

The important thing is not to force the issue, if a player is unable to do a task it is OK, as long as they are trying, remember they are only 5-6 years old. The main focus is to have fun.