This activity is one that kids need not be talked into doing. Let them warm up by themselves and see what they choose to do. Chances are they will elect a goalkeeper and proceed to stand in front of a goal and shoot.

We need to take this natural desire to shoot, place children in game-like activities that will give them realistic shooting opportunities, and most importantly, keep the fun in it. Show them how to use the instep (slightly to the left of the shoelaces) and get going. Avoid the “toe ball.” Children tend to kick with their toes and need to learn that there is more control when you use the instep.

• Shooter/Keeper: Ask players to alternate between shooting and playing goalkeeper. Stay 10 yards apart.

• Through a Goal: Make a series of small goals and have a shooter on each side with a goalkeeper in the goal.  Beat the goalie as many times as you can in a given period (1 minute.) Alternate goalkeepers.

• Target Shooting: Set a cone down between two players. Work on striking the ball low and firm in an attempt to knock the cone over. He who knocks over the cone also resets it.

• Two-a-Side: Play with 2 shooters on either side of the goal with 2 goalkeepers. Shoot back and forth. The addition of the second player allows for a variety of shots to be taken (from the side, straight on, etc.) Create the type of shots to be taken.

• Two vs. Two- Same as above, but play 2 against 2, back and forth through a goal with goalkeepers.

• Mini soccer: On a small field, play 3V3. The closeness lends itself to create a shooting environment.  Play a series of short games. Keep extra balls behind each goal to keep the game flowing.