How to Help Your Child Improve Their Weak Foot

Aug 22

Written By Chris .

(Real-World Tips and Drills You Can Use Today)

Being able to use both feet is a game-changer in soccer. It makes your child more versatile, confident, and harder to defend. But improving a weak foot takes time, patience—and the right approach. Here’s how to make it happen at home, step by step.

✅ 1. Start With 10-Minute Weak-Foot Sessions

Kids lose focus if sessions drag on. Instead:

Set a timer for 10 minutes, 2–3 times a week.
Keep it simple: passing, light dribbling, and shooting with the weak foot only.
Short, consistent practice beats long, stressful sessions every time.

✅ 2. Pass-and-Move Drill (No Equipment Needed)

Stand 5–10 feet apart.
Pass the ball back and forth only with the weak foot.
Add movement: after each pass, take three steps left or right so they adjust before the next touch.
Pro Tip: Track how many clean passes they can make in a row—kids love beating their own record!

✅ 3. Wall Challenge for Quick Wins

Find a sturdy wall or garage door.
Have your child pass the ball against the wall and control it with their weak foot both ways.
Challenge: 20 passes without losing control.
This builds touch and confidence fast.

✅ 4. Juggling Made Easy

Start with one juggle and catch using the weak foot.
Move to two, then three.
Celebrate every small improvement.
Tip: Use a softer ball indoors for stress-free practice.

✅ 5. Create Weak-Foot Mini Games

Turn practice into play:

Left Foot Shootout: Every goal scored with the weak foot = 1 point. First to 5 wins.
Dribble Relay: Time them dribbling around cones using only the weak foot. Then try to beat their own time next round.

✅ 6. Make It Part of Daily Play

Simple rules that add big benefits:

First touch with weak foot during any casual play.
Start every juggling session with the weak foot.
Alternate feet when shooting during backyard games.

✅ 7. Track Progress Together

Kids stay motivated when they see results:

Use a Weak-Foot Progress Chart (make a quick grid on paper).
Track best juggling streak, fastest dribble time, and most accurate passes each week.
Goal: Make improvement visible and fun.

✅ 8. Watch and Learn

Show your child clips of players like Kevin De Bruyne or Alex Morgan using both feet. Ask:

“Did you notice how they passed with their left?”
“What can we try like that?”
Seeing the skill in action motivates kids to keep practicing.

✅ 9. Add Balance Exercises

Weak-foot control often fails because of poor balance.

Stand on the weak leg for 30 seconds (make it fun by tossing a ball while balancing).
Progress to hopping or quick side steps for agility.

✅ 10. Keep It Positive

Improving a weak foot is frustrating at times. Avoid saying “That was wrong.” Instead try:

“Great effort! Let’s try that again.”
Confidence + fun = long-term success.

Final Thought

With just 10 minutes a few times a week, fun challenges, and lots of encouragement, your child can turn their weak foot into a secret weapon—and enjoy the process.

Chris .