If your child asks you to play football and you have ten minutes, you do not need a set of drills. This little game needs one ball, six shoes or soft markers, and a clear bit of garden or park. You get a turn too.
Make three gates
Put your markers down in three pairs, with a gap between each pair wide enough to roll the ball through. Leave a few steps between the gates so there is room to turn. Choose a clear outdoor space away from roads and windows.
Start with wide gaps. Your child can give the gates names if they like.
Let them choose the route
Ask your child to take the ball through any two gates, stop it, then pass it to you. Your job is to copy the same route. Swap roles and let them copy yours.
If a gate feels tricky, move the markers farther apart. If they want another challenge, try a different order on the way back. There is no need to time it or count touches.
Finish while they still want another go
A couple of turns each may be plenty. If the ball runs away, bring it back and carry on. The idea is simply to have a few minutes playing together.
Before you pack up, ask your child to invent one new route for next time.
If they want to play with other children
Football Frenzy runs weekend football sessions at Mowsbury Park in Bedford for children aged 4–15. Andrew leads every weekly session with assistant coaches. Your child can try a first session for free before you decide whether to join.
See the weekend age groups and times