If you’ve ever watched a Tiny Troops Soccer class, you’ll know that it’s nothing like professional or recreational league soccer games. You’ll likely see kids running around, some paying attention and others just doing their own thing. You might see them suddenly distracted by a plane overhead or an emergency vehicle siren. Some kids will be shy, others will have big feelings, and some will kick the ball. And all of this is okay, exactly what a Tiny Troops Soccer class is about!

As Tiny Troops Soccer coaches, we love seeing our players learn and grow while playing soccer. We know that sometimes parents may have big expectations for their little ones that might not match where their child is developmentally. Here are a few things coaches wish every parent knew about developmental soccer for toddlers and preschoolers.

1. It’s All About Movement and Having Fun

At this age, Tiny Troopers are being introduced to soccer. They are learning how to move on a soccer field (Soccer Island!), coordinate their bodies to kick a ball, and learn to follow directions, among other things. While all coaches follow a structured lesson plan that includes a variety of games, we don’t expect Tiny Troopers to play the game exactly as it’s meant to be played. We’re instead looking to see them being active, smiling, and giving things a try. Even if they are just running around, they are still engaging in physical activity.

2. Big Feelings Happen, and That’s Okay!

Tiny Troopers are learning to navigate their feelings and express themselves. Not every class is going to run smoothly for every child. Coaches are used to seeing a variety of big feelings scenarios, and we work to reassure parents that this is normal and absolutely okay. Some days there’s crying, and some days there’s refusal to play. Other times, Tiny Troopers may be focused on their snack, or running to play on the playground. A Tiny Trooper’s soccer development isn’t going to be linear, but every class will help build confidence over time. Coaches roll with the big feelings and meet the child on their level instead.

3. Attention Spans Are Really Short

Toddlers and preschoolers have short attention spans at this age, lasting only a few minutes. That’s why our coaches make sure that directions are concise and games and activities quick and engaging. Wiggles, distractions, wandering, it’s all part of class. They’re learning, and their attention span will slowly increase over time as they grow.

4. It’s Okay If They Don’t Participate Right Away

Coaches love seeing Tiny Troopers jump right into the action, but we also love our Tiny Troopers who may not be quite ready to participate just yet. Some may prefer to watch from the sidelines for a few classes. Others may refuse to participate, or run to their parent for comfort during class. Developmental sports are about exposure and comfort, not instant participation. Coaches are focused on positive encouragement and patience to help every Tiny Trooper take to the field. We want every child to be successful in their own way. (And if you have a shy Tiny Trooper, here are some tips for helping them take to Soccer Island.)

5. Repetition is Key

It may seem like we do the same activities every week, or there are slight changes in activities and games. This is intentional. At this age, Tiny Troopers need repetition to help them learn and understand skills. This also helps them build confidence. It may seem like they are just dribbling a ball again to an adult, but this is helping to reinforce and build on a key foundational skill.

6. Fun is #1!

At the end of every class, the most important thing is that your Tiny Trooper had fun on Soccer Island. Coaches want them to associate soccer with fun, which can encourage them to continue to play as they grow older. Many of our Tiny Troopers started at age 2 and have stuck with the program at ages 3 and 4, sometimes 5, before moving on to play recreational league soccer.

Tiny Troops Soccer isn’t about producing the next professional athlete—it’s about fostering a love of movement, social interaction, and play. So, parents, relax, enjoy the journey, and let your little one experience the joy of the game in their own unique way!