So, your little one has decided they want to be the next Ronaldo or Messi? That’s great! But now you’re faced with a tiny problem – where do you even start with coaching soccer for your pint-sized prodigy? Well, look no further! We’ve handpicked the best soccer drills suitable for four-year-olds that will not only get them acquainted with the sport but also help develop their motor skills. Oh, and let’s not forget about ensuring they have tons of fun in the process!

Kick-off Activity: The SpongeBob Warm-Up Game

If you want your kids playing like pros, they need to warm up like pros too! This game is perfect because it combines a warm-up routine with an element of fun that kids will love.

• Equipment needed: A set of cones arranged in a square-shaped grid.
• Description: Inspired by our favorite underwater cartoon character who famously “ripped his pants” (*cue giggles*), have each child practice various stretching movements around the grid while singing along to “I ripped my pants.”
• Note: For added entertainment (and possibly embarrassment), join them on this musical adventure – trust us; kids love it when grown-ups get goofy.

Drill #1: Dribble Like There’s No Tomorrow!

This drill helps kids understand the basic concept of dribbling: keeping the ball as close to their feet as possible while moving forward.

• Equipment needed: A set of cones arranged in a straight line, one ball per child.
• Description: Have your little dribblers navigate through the cones with a ball glued to their feet (figuratively speaking, of course). Encourage them to change direction and practice using both their left and right foot for maximum skill development.

Drill #2: The Red Light, Green Light Game

Surely you remember playing this childhood classic on the playground? Well, now it’s time to bring it back – but with a soccer twist!

• Equipment needed: One soccer ball per child.
• Description:Create a field marked by cones. When you shout “green light,” have kids dribble forward towards the opposite end of the field. When you shout “red light,” they must stop dead in their tracks while still controlling their ball. This game helps reinforce speed control and decision-making skills on the pitch .

Drill #3: Copycat Kickers

Sometimes competition brings out the best in people; other times, teamwork does! This cooperative drill teaches little athletes about following instructions and mimicking others’ movements.

Copycat Kickers
Equipment needed:	One soccer ball per pair of kids.
Description:	Pair up your junior jocks and assign one as the leader. The leader performs a simple move (e.g., side-to-side foot taps) while their partner tries to replicate it as precisely as possible. After a minute, switch roles. Not only does this drill help build specific skills but also fosters teamwork and communication!







Drill #4: Goalie Gorillas

A team is nothing without its last line of defense – the legendary goalkeeper! This fun drill introduces young players to goalie fundamentals such as handling, footwork, positioning, and reaction time.

• FYI: You’ll need two additional grown-ups for this game – so leave the phones in your bag!
• Equipment needed: A set of cones arranged in front of each goal (about two meters apart), small portable goals, and one soccer ball.
• Description: First, have the goalies stand in their designated cone area. Get your grown-up assistants to shoot balls towards these mini-goalkeeping prodigies while they defend their turf like the pros they aspire to be! Remember to have fun and encourage them along the way – success is built on a solid foundation of self-esteem.

And there you have it – five engaging, kid-tested soccer drills designed specifically for four-year-olds. Regardless of whether your little superstar dreams of becoming the next Pele or only plays for fun (and donuts at halftime), these drills will help them develop vital skills needed both on and off the field. So, lace-up those mini cleats and get ready to rumble!

About The Author :

Sarah Smith – Soccer mom extraordinaire by day/pre-school teacher by night/weekend referee/occasional coach/all-round multitasking machine! Sarah’s love of sports was instilled in her from a young age by her dad. Now a proud mama bear has passed that love down three generations when she’s not busy running after her own brood; you’ll find Sarah attending professional games or playing pick-up with friends in local parks.”