Good Age for Soccer

J., my " kids" are 16, 18,20, 27. All of them played soccer at age 3 and into their teens. It's a great way for the younger ones to exercise and learn how to get along with others. The program they attended was a rec group that taught Micro Soccer. Micro soccer type teams are geared toward the little guys-smaller playing field, smaller balls, with emphasis on playing and having fun while learning at the same time. The 6 week programs are an inexpensive way to see how the kids like the sport. Have fun!

I say that it depend on the kid. If they seem like they are physically able to play, then put them in it. I had my 4yo in a soccer program this summer. my almost 3yo wanted to play too but the age for this program was 3-5. they let him play anyway and he did great!!!

They loved it at three but it was a team with me playing too. He might be a bit young but you can always try it. It is fun and helps with eye hand coordination and is a sport you can play anywhere. We kick the ball around just for fun almost everywhere we go.

I would also have to say it depends on the child. My daughter who is now 8 has always been really tall for her age. She started in a soccer camp when she was 5. It was less structured than the actual team sport. Usually when it's younger children they try to make it more fun than worrying about the technical side of it.

J.,

I am a little biased here because I am very involved in the Grove City Youth Soccer Program. Our program actually does not admit the kids until they are age four. However, I have my own little ones (younger than four) and I enjoy putting them in programs through the YMCA. I currently have a three year old and she is involved in YMCA programs. I look at is as getting her used to being in social situations, plus she has so much energy that I can't imagine her learning to hate it after only six weeks.

I'd say go for it!

Good Luck!

L.

My son just turned four and he played last fall. We take him to a place called Kidzblast. You pay about $60 for 6 classes (don't quote me on that) and its just introduction to soccer. They don't play on teams. They learn different drills and things like that. Its an hour class so its enough time for them to learn but not too much time where they get bored. If you'd like more info contact me and I can find some more out for you.

Also if you are interested in meeting some other kids his age please check out my playgroup ... its new so its a great time to join!

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/catch_me_if_you_can_2007/