Soccer toys and equipment range in size and price. Find out what you need to help your child enjoy learning a new sport.
So, you want your child to learn how to play soccer. Well, the first and most obvious thing you need is a ball. Soccer balls come in all different sizes depending on the age of your child.
Size 3 is for ages 8 and under. These balls generally weigh between 11 and 12 ounces and have a circumference of 23 to 24 inches.
Size 4 is for children between the ages of 8 and 12. Balls in this size weigh between 12 and 13 ounces and have a circumference of 25 to 26 inches.
Size 5 is for anyone ages 12 and older, including adults. This is the standard size game ball and weighs between 14 and 16 ounces with a circumference of 26 to 27 inches.
If your child has just begun to show an interest in soccer it is not necessary to go out and buy the best ball you can find. Any ball that is the correct size for your child’s age range will do. Of course if you want to get fancy with a ball, you can do that too. They now make balls that you can draw your own patterns on, balls with different characters, and balls with many other exciting colors and designs.
You have a ball, so now you need a goal. This can be anything from two sticks that mark a goal spot to an official soccer goal. If you are feeling handy you can make a goal out of PVC piping or 4x4s and some concrete. For the less handy there is always the store. As with anything, soccer goals range in size, weight and expense. Soccer nets, of course, are sold separately.
Another type of goal you may find useful is a rebounding goal. After your child kicks the ball into the goal it is rebounded back to them. This goal would be useful if there is no one around for your child to play with. Rebounding goals are also available in a variety of weights and sizes.
For very young children you may be interested in an electronic soccer goal. It is made out of plastic and designed for children two years old and up. When the ball is kicked into the net the goal makes noises. After your child gets the hang of kicking the ball into the goal you can add the target that hangs in the middle. Extra noises sound when the ball hits the target.
Once your child gets the hang of kicking the ball he or she may want to begin dribbling it around the yard or field. All you need for this is an open space. After they have mastered that skill you can add some cones to help teach them foot control. For this you might want to purchase some little orange, or what ever color you can find, cones. Again, if you are cutting costs household items like buckets, boxes or two liter bottles filled with dirt will do.
As with any sport there are also safety features to consider. Soccer cleats dig into the ground helping your child have a better grip. Shin guards are import for keeping the legs protected. Even if you are just playing in the back yard it is a good idea to have your child wear protective gear. No one likes the pain involved with getting kicked in the shins. Plus, if you end up at soccer practice and Saturday morning games your son or daughter is already used to the feel of the shin guards.
