AD. Is there a set age kids can start playing football? How do you know when they’re ready? Can they join a team at a young age? If you are on the hunt for a new hobby for your kids, football may or may not have entered your mind but if you’re interested in learning about the benefits of football for kids, and what age they can start playing, read on.
[Photo by Alliance Football Club on Unsplash]
The best age to start football
Children can start playing football younger than you may think. However, keep in mind that all children develop at different rates and skills may also be developed faster when they’re doing something they enjoy.
By the time a child is two years old, on average, they will start to be able to kick a ball around. At this early age, that is just what it is though – kicking a ball. Most children wouldn’t be able to comprehend team football, but your child may start to understand kicking a ball back and forth to each other. This is something you can easily practice with your child at home.
Playing football as part of a team requires greater coordination and communication skills, between the ages of three and five, many children will start to develop the skills that are essential in football. By five years old, a child would normally be able to play shorter games of football.
Overall, there is no ‘best age’ for children to start playing football, because the answer is they can start pretty much any time after they’re three years old!
Even for older children, picking up football as a hobby can come with great benefits.
Naturally, some children may be more attracted to football and show more interest in the sport at an earlier age too. This can be common in families where there are already football fans!
Why Should Kids Play Football?
Having your kids play football isn't reserved for parents who are mega fans of footy themselves though – there are so many benefits children can gain from playing football that the sport is ideal for most youngsters.
Football helps children develop vital skills that come in handy both on and off the pitch. Coordination, teamwork, communication skills, sharing, listening to instructions, and a healthy attitude towards physical activity can all come through football.
There is also the social aspect of football games, kids can meet other children, make new friends, and just have a good time! Football is also excellent for building confidence in shyer children.
Academy Football
If your child starts to really get into football, you might want to consider them joining a team, club, or academy. This can boost their confidence further and is a great after-school activity for a healthy lifestyle. Getting them a soccer jersey can also enhance their sense of belonging and pride in their new hobby, making them feel more like a part of the team.
There are various types and levels of football children can join when they’re young. Obviously, children who are recognised as having unusual talent usually get snapped up by professional scouts but for other children, organised football coaching or lessons can be a brilliant way for them to take their hobby further.
Open to kids of all ages, football academies for kids usually focus on the fun and social aspects of organised football and are a great way for parents to get involved too, via coaching.
What do you think about kids playing football? Would you let your kids attend an academy or start lessons?
