How to Develop Use of Both Feet in Youth Soccer Players

Soccer is a two-footed game. Although children naturally gravitate toward using one foot, it is extremely important to actively encourage the use of both feet.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Soccer Balls

1. Narrow in on the task. Play games that require using the nondominant foot only.
2. Practice shooting with the nondominant foot. In informal games, award more points for use of that foot.
3. Alternate the sides on which you defend players, thus forcing them to use both feet.
4. Encourage a right-footed child to play the left side of the field, or vice versa, in games or practice, which puts the focus on the nondominant foot.
5. Make sure your child's coach works on developing both feet, in part by playing children on both sides of the field.
6. Give extra praise when a player uses, or attempts to use, the nondominant foot. Say, "I like the way you played that ball with your left (or right) foot."
7. Refer to the nonpreferred foot as the "other" foot, not as the "weak" or "bad" foot.
8. Be patient. It is a challenging task to become skilled at using both feet.

Tips & Warnings

• Be willing to help. You do not need a soccer background to play with a child.
• Be enthusiastic. If you show an interest, a child will want to work with you.
• Suggest, don't insist. Parents should practice only if children are interested and enthusiastic.
• Use positive encouragement. Tell children what they do right, and how they may do even better. Avoid negative criticism.
• Learn some games and exercises. You can do this by reading books or by watching your child in practice.
• Integrate skills into daily life. Use opportunities such as waiting at the school bus stop or playing in the backyard to practice skills.
• Watch experienced players or professional games together. Point out to your child how players are fluent with both feet.
• Find a mentor. An older player (or sibling) makes for a good threesome, or even twosome. You can also learn by watching.