How Often Should a Child Train for Football?

If your child loves football, it’s only natural to want to support them in every possible way. But as a parent, you might be wondering—how often should they actually train? Should your 5-year-old be out on the pitch every evening? Is one session a week enough to help them improve? What if they decide to quit altogether?

Balancing training, rest, school, and fun is key to helping your child not just as a footballer, but as a happy, confident kid.

Here we’ll break down how often children should train for football, how to avoid burnout, and how to keep the game fun for everyone.

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How Many Times a Week Should Kids Play Football to Improve Their Skills?

Let’s start with the big question. How often should football kids train if they want to get better at the game?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your child’s age, energy, and passion for the sport. However, here are some general guidelines:

• Ages 2–3: At this stage, football should be all about play. One short, fun session per week—through a toddler football group or casual kickabouts at home—is plenty. It’s about building early motor skills, not intense training.
  
  
• Ages 3–5: For slightly older little ones, joining a football club for 3 year olds can be a great way to introduce teamwork, balance, and ball skills. One structured session per week is ideal, with space to play casually at home.
  
  
• Ages 6–8: 1–2 sessions per week is a great balance. Kids at this age start picking up more technical skills and often enjoy being part of a team.
  
  
• Ages 9–12: If your child is really passionate, 2–3 sessions per week will help them progress steadily while still allowing time for school and other interests.
  
  

💡 Remember, quality is more important than quantity—especially in early childhood. Help them fall in love with the game before putting pressure on performance.

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Should Kids Have a Break from Football?

Yes—rest is essential, even for young football fans. Whether your child is new to the sport or part of a local football club, downtime is just as important as pitch time.

Breaks allow for:

• Physical recovery, so their growing bodies stay safe and injury-free
  
  
• Mental refreshment, helping them stay motivated and excited
  
  
• Family time, for enjoying life outside of football
  
  

If they ask to skip a session, that’s okay. Football will still be there when they’re ready to jump back in.

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What If My Child Wants to Train Every Day?

Some children just can’t get enough of the game! If that’s your child, keep things fun and low-pressure:

• Short backyard or park sessions
  
  
• Casual kickabouts with friends or siblings
  
  
• Watching football together and talking about favourite players
  
  

If they’re in the toddler football stage (ages 2–4), let their enthusiasm guide the way—but step in if it starts feeling like a chore.

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What to Do When Your Child Wants to Quit Football

One day they’re obsessed with football, and the next they’re not interested at all. This is totally normal.

Ask gentle questions:

• “Are you not enjoying the sessions anymore?”
  
  
• “Would you rather do something else for a while?”
  
  

Sometimes, it’s just a phase. Other times, they might feel overwhelmed or out of place. Listen openly and remind them that their happiness comes first. If they return to the game later, they’ll do so with a fresh mindset.

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How Do I Know If My Child Is Training Too Much?

Even football-loving kids can burn out. Look for signs like:

• Constant tiredness or irritability
  
  
• A sudden drop in interest
  
  
• Complaints about aches or pains
  
  
• Difficulty balancing school or other hobbies
  
  

If you notice any of these, ease up the schedule. A good football club will always prioritise your child’s wellbeing.

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Is Playing at Home as Valuable as Football Training?

Yes—especially for toddlers and younger kids. Playing at home:

• Builds basic ball control and coordination
  
  
• Encourages bonding between parent and child
  
  
• Fosters a love of the game in a safe environment
  
  

That said, home sessions can be limited by distractions, space, and lack of structure. That’s where group sessions or one-to-ones at Future 11 make a real difference.

Our classes keep football fun and engaging while introducing teamwork, communication, and movement in safe, spacious venues.

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Should Kids Try Other Sports Too?

Definitely. While football for 2 year olds and up is brilliant for development, variety prevents burnout and builds broader skills.

Other sports like:

• Swimming (for stamina)
  
  
• Gymnastics (for balance and flexibility)
  
  
• Martial arts (for discipline and focus)
  
  

…all compliment football nicely.

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Keeping Football Fun and Encouraging Progress

At any age, football should feel like a positive experience. Here’s how to keep the spark alive:

• Praise effort, not just goals or wins
  
  
• Let them rest when needed—it helps avoid burnout
  
  
• Avoid comparisons with other kids
  
  
• Celebrate their love for the game, no matter how they show it

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So, How Often Should a Child Train?

If your child is aged 3–12, two football sessions per week—plus casual play—is a great starting point. For younger children in toddler football, one weekly session is enough. As they grow and get more passionate, you can slowly increase the schedule.

🚨 Still unsure when to start? Check out our blog on What is the Best Age for My Child to Start Football? for tips on getting started early and what to expect.

Most importantly, follow your child’s lead. If they’re having fun and feeling good, you’re on the right path.

Want to Get Started?

At Future 11, we offer friendly, age-appropriate coaching for children aged 3–12. Whether your child is new to football or already loves dribbling, we’ll help them grow and thrive.

⚽ Book a FREE taster session and see why so many families trust Future 11 to introduce their children to football the fun way!