The Idiot Parent's Guide to Training Your Own Child

  In this episode, I sat down with a fellow soccer dad, Michael Byers to discuss the first steps in training your own child.   His goal is to find a step-by-step program that his son can follow to improve individual skills and confidence.   Special authors note: Later this year, I will do a show where we discuss tips on working with children below the age of six.  

Key Insights

• We use soccer as a metaphor to teach other important life lessons.
• Giving your child a head start in soccer will help them enjoy the game more.
• Parents must create a system that helps the child get those essential touches without frustrating the child.

 

Big Mistakes Many Parents Make

• Parents try to move to advance skills before establishing a solid foundation.
• Parents try to "do too much". I recommend leaving the bulk of the work to the coaches and trainers.

   

Five Areas that the Parent-Trainer Should Focus On

• Repetition, Repetition, and Mo’ Repetition - help your child establish consistent routines.
• Relentless Focus on Becoming Two-footed - No one else will do this other than you.
• Perfect Aerial Control - Juggling and aerial control are important skills that must be practiced outside of team training.
• Find the Right Club & Trainers - You want a club and trainers that teach, inspire, and mold your child to become a better person.
• Love and Support Your Child Unconditionally - Be the supportive parent that cheers them on and encourages them through thick and thin.
• (Bonus) Notice the Areas not Mentioned - (99.999% of the youth soccer drama that we read or hear about)

 

Never coaching from the sidelines.

  Here is a link to the Interval Timer app mentioned during the show.   Listen to the show and let us know your thoughts.