Preparing for Your Child’s First Soccer Class

Your Tiny Trooper’s first soccer class is just around the corner! Whether you’re excited, nervous, uncertain, or somewhere in between, it’s all normal! Tiny Troops Soccer is often the very first sport for toddlers and preschoolers, and it can be hard to know what to expect during that first class. We’ve prepared some tips to help make the transition easier for you and your little one.

1. Wear the Right Gear

Make sure to check the weather before heading to class. Dress your Tiny Trooper in loose-fitting athletic clothing suitable for the weather. When in doubt, layers are best so that pieces can be added or taken away as needed. Tiny Troopers also need closed-toe shoes. Tennis shoes are just fine for this age group. Cleats are optional, but not necessary. Some of our locations offer a 4.5/5 year old class. This is the only class that requires shin guards to play. For all other age groups, they are unnecessary.

2. Pack the Essentials

Don’t forget to pack a water bottle. There will be opportunities in between games and activities during class to hydrate. This is especially important during the summer months, when the heat and humidity rise. If your little one forgets their water bottle in one class, check with your child’s coach for a spare. Your Tiny Trooper will also need a size 3 soccer ball. Our program aims to give each child as many touches on the ball as possible during classes. Coaches do have a spare ball or two, but they do not have enough extras for every player. An optional item to add might be a change of clothes or some wet wipes, for those muddy days, or on the off chance your child finds the only mud puddle at the park.

3. Talk About the Big Day

It’s important to prepare your Tiny Trooper for their first class. Talk about soccer with them. Play in the backyard with their ball, showing them how to use their feet to kick it. Visit our website and check out some of our Virtual Classes. These classes follow a similar format that your child will see on Soccer Island during their first class, and are a great introduction. Answer any questions your child might have, but make sure to stress that the important thing is for them to have fun and make new friends.

3. Arrive Early

On class day, arrive a little bit early to Soccer Island. This gives your Tiny Trooper the chance to see the new space. They can also meet other new friends arriving for class and say hi to their coach. If another class is finishing up, observe the class together and talk about what the other players are doing. As a parent, you’ll also be able to meet other parents. It also gives you the chance to give your little one a final pep talk before class begins.

4. Let Your Child Take the Lead

Some children jump right and have no problems participating. Others are scared or shy and need extra support. Cheer them on from the sidelines (if they’re in the age 3+ classes), or whisper quiet support to them while you work together in one of the Parent and Me classes. Cheer them on. After class, talk to your child’s coach to find other ways to support your Tiny Trooper. Every child moves at their own pace and in their own time.

5. Expect the Unexpected

This age group is full of unexpected surprises. Your little one might be having a big feelings day. They might have trouble listening and following directions. They might get distracted by something else near Soccer Island, like a playground. Or they may decide to chase that butterfly and run off of Soccer Island. These surprises are unsurprising to your child’s coach. They know it’s all part of the learning process, and will meet your Tiny Trooper where they are.

6. Celebrate

After class, talk to your child about what they did. Ask questions about what they liked, and highlight the positives from practice, no matter how small:

• “You did a great job listening to your coach today!”
• “I loved watching you dribble the ball and score a goal.”
• “You got on Soccer Island today and had a lot of fun. I’m so proud of you.”

Your child’s first soccer class isn’t about doing everything exactly as they should. It’s about getting on Soccer Island, having fun, making new friends, and staying active. Learning to play soccer is just a big bonus! By preparing ahead and embracing the chaos with a smile, you’re setting your child up for success with Tiny Troops Soccer.

Interested in giving Tiny Troops Soccer a go, but haven’t signed up yet? Find your location and do so today!