Scrimmages and Your Tiny Trooper

Here at Tiny Troops Soccer, we like to give players in our 3-and-up classes the chance to participate in scrimmages at the end of classes. Our 3 and 4-year-old classes will scrimmage at the end of classes 2 and 3 for the month, while players in our 4.5/5 year old classes will scrimmage at the end of all classes. Tiny Troopers are told they are playing a real game of soccer, and this experience is their first taste of traditional soccer.

If you’ve ever watched younger players participating in recreational league soccer, you know that every child participates differently. Some players will be playing the game as it should be. Others may be watching their teammates play or picking flowers they found on the field. Some may refuse to play, while others may get the ball, only to take it in the opposite direction of their team’s goal.

You can find all of these types of players in Tiny Troops Soccer scrimmages as well. Every coach’s goal is to introduce the child to the concept of a traditional soccer game and teach the rules, regulations, and skills along the way. As a parent of a toddler or preschooler involved in Tiny Troops Soccer, it can be exciting to watch your child participate in their first soccer scrimmage at the end of class. Scrimmages are a fun way to put the skills they’ve learned into practice, but it’s important to know what to expect so you can support your child. Here are some tips for parents to help navigate scrimmages and ensure a positive experience for their players.

1. Scrimmages are About Fun, Not Competition
   Scrimmages at this age are about having fun and practicing new skills during class. During this time, players are learning the rules of scrimmaging, ball control, and interacting with other players. Coaches do not keep score and instead focus on highlighting skills and accomplishments. “Great job passing the ball to Timmy, Samantha!” “That was a great pullback that kept the ball on Soccer Island, John!” It’s normal if your child doesn’t fully understand the rules of soccer yet. They may be running aimlessly, chasing the ball, or simply watching others. Don’t worry if they don’t “play” like older kids. The goal is to have fun and start connecting with the game.
2. It Takes Time to Learn the Rules
   Just like any new experience, it might take your child a few scrimmages to feel comfortable. They might be hesitant at first, unsure about the fast pace, or simply overwhelmed by the group. Some kids love the action right away, while others may need time to get used to the idea of playing with a group and a ball. It’s normal if your child stays close to the coach, clings to you, or doesn’t immediately engage in the game. Encourage them by cheering them on and keeping the atmosphere light. Sometimes, just being present and offering a little reassurance can make a huge difference.
3. Coaching Overload is Real
   While playing a scrimmage, your child will hear coaching instructions from their coach, such as to try dribbling the ball, do a certain skill, pass the ball, or simply to keep their hands to themselves. Toddlers and preschoolers are just learning to complete multiple directions at the same time. Your child might appear distracted or lose focus during the scrimmage, and that’s completely normal. It’s not about performing perfectly. It’s about becoming familiar with the game and having a positive experience. If your child isn’t following every instruction, don’t stress. It will take time for them to fully understand the rules.
4. Encouragement is Key
   Scrimmages can be a little chaotic, especially if your child is still getting the hang of things. It’s easy for Tiny Troopers to get distracted or even frustrated if they can’t quite get the hang of dribbling or kicking the ball where they want it to go. This is where your role as a parent comes in. Encourage your child and reinforce the idea that trying and learning are what’s most important. Celebrate the small steps they take toward new concepts, and boost their confidence at the same time. Everyone is still learning, and that’s why they’re doing scrimmages in the first place.
5. Post Scrimmage Reflection
   After the scrimmage and class have ended, take time to reflect with your child on it. Ask them what they liked most about playing today, or their favorite part. Don’t forget to share your favorite parts, too! “I loved seeing you follow the ball all the way to your goal today!” “I saw you help Derek kick the ball toward your goal.” Reflecting with your child shows you value their input and their role in the day’s scrimmage. If your Tiny Trooper isn’t quite ready to talk after class, save the discussion for a time when they would be more open to discussion.