Soccer Training Gear Every Parent Should Consider for Their Kids

Instead of preparing for an entire team practice, parents just need to think about one thing: helping their child get more touches on the ball and have fun doing it. The right training gear makes it easy to turn the backyard, driveway, or park into a mini soccer academy — no whistles or clipboards required.

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1. Age-Appropriate Soccer Ball

• Sizes: Size 3 (U8), Size 4 (U8–U12), Size 5 (13+).
• Look for softer training balls for younger kids to reduce sting when kicking or heading.
• Tip for parents: Buy two — one for home, one to keep in the car.

2. Backyard Goals

Pop-up or foldable goals make it easy for kids to play soccer anywhere, anytime. They set up in seconds, fold flat for storage, and are light enough for kids to carry themselves to the backyard, park, or a friend’s house. Because they’re portable, you don’t need a permanent setup, making them perfect for families with limited space.

Beyond convenience, these goals keep kids motivated. Scoring into an actual net is far more satisfying than kicking at an open space, which means they’ll practice shooting more often. Most pop-up models are made with flexible poles and mesh, making them safer for home use than heavy metal frames, and they’re ideal for small-sided games that boost touches and decision-making.

Here’s a great set for home that includes targets: MoCo Backyard Soccer Goal For Kids (#ad)

3. Cones and Agility Markers

Soccer cones are great for dribbling courses and agility challenges. They can also be used in driveways, backyards, or even indoors with soft balls. Kids love to use them to set up games or obstacle courses and they won’t break the bank, to boot. Here’s an affordable set that will get the job done for your up-and-coming Messi: ZICRO Soccer Cones with Mesh Bag (#ad).

4. Rebounders & Passing Nets

Soccer rebounders are one of the best training tools for kids because they allow for independent practice. When your child kicks the ball into the net or frame, it bounces back at varying speeds and angles, forcing them to react, control, and pass again — just like they would in a real game. This helps improve first touch, passing accuracy, and reaction time without needing a teammate or parent to constantly feed balls.

They’re also versatile. Many rebounders can be adjusted for ground passes or lofted returns, so kids can work on different skills in the same session. Using one for just 10–15 minutes a day can dramatically increase touches on the ball, and because it feels more like a challenge than a chore, kids are more likely to stick with it. Plus, the quick-return nature keeps them active and engaged, which means less downtime and more skill-building in every practice. Here’s a solid choice at a low price point from Amazon: BAGAIL 4×4 Soccer Rebounder (#ad).

5. Agility Ladders & Mini Hurdles

Agility ladders are fantastic tools to help kids develop quick feet, balance, and coordination — all essential skills for soccer players. By running through various footwork drills, children improve their speed and ability to change direction smoothly on the field. These ladders turn warm-ups and training sessions into fun challenges, making it easier for kids to stay focused and motivated.

They’re also super easy to use at home or in the backyard since they’re lightweight and portable. Plus, many drills can be turned into friendly competitions, like timed runs or hopping patterns, which adds a fun, game-like element to practice. Regular use can boost not only physical skills but also confidence and body awareness.

6. Fun Extras That Keep Kids Practicing

• Target sheets for goals to improve accuracy.
• Glow-in-the-dark soccer balls for evening play.
• Stopwatch or phone timer for self-challenges (“how fast can you dribble through the cones?”).

7. Safety & Comfort Gear

• Properly fitted shin guards (#ad).
• Comfortable cleats for the right surface (grass vs turf).
• Water bottle they love so they actually hydrate.

For parents, the goal isn’t to run a full-scale practice — it’s to give your child easy, fun ways to improve their skills on their own or with friends. Invest in a few key pieces of gear, and you might be surprised how quickly “five minutes in the backyard” turns into an hour of soccer without you saying a word.