Regular soccer training helps build teamwork and the skills necessary to succeed on the field. However, some more fundamental techniques take constant practice, making home drills essential. No matter your child's age or skill level, the exercises below will help them take their game to the next level.

What Soccer Drills Should You Practice at Home?

1. Wall Juggling

Kicking a ball against a wall will help a child perfect their form and develop the precise control to excel on the field. As they practice, they should focus on keeping their body relaxed and using all the different parts of their foot. 

Your kid can also practice dribbling and juggling the ball by standing closer to the wall. As their skills develop, have them make their soccer training more challenging. To do this, they can try bouncing the ball off their thighs, chest, and head.

2. Figure 8 Dribbling

Incorporating figure-eight dribbling into your child's soccer training will help develop their ability to maneuver the ball, even when quickly changing directions. Start by setting two cones about four yards apart, then have them dribble the ball around the objects in a figure-eight pattern.

As they get faster, they should practice using only the inner edge of their foot to dribble or only kicking with one foot. Along with building speed, you must remind your child to work on keeping their head up and using the proper form.

3. Stair Stepping

Some soccer training drills don't involve kicking. For instance, stair-stepping with the ball can help build stamina and balance. Have your child place one foot on the ball in front of them. Then, they should jump on and off the ball while keeping it from rolling out from under them. This exercise can be difficult at first, but they'll eventually have the balance and control to keep it in place.

4. Juggling

Juggling is essential to soccer, which makes it part of any practice routine. When your child learns to keep the ball in the air without using their hands, they'll develop better hand-eye coordination, stamina, and control. 

As your little one practices juggling with their feet, they should also incorporate their knees and hips. Eventually, they'll be able to flip the ball up to their head and bounce it off their chest before bringing it back down to their feet.

If your child is looking for a sports organization that provides proven soccer training, bring them to Beachside Soccer Club in Norwalk, CT. They offer a variety of programs led by expert coaches for children up to age 13, with options for students of all skill levels. Older players can join their premiere team, which provides the chance to participate in the U.S. Soccer Academy Program. Visit their website to learn more about their youth soccer club, or call (203) 852-6969 with any questions.