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.
