Walk Into It

What you need

• a soft ball
• a clear bit of open floor or grass

How to do it

1. Put the ball still on the ground a couple of steps in front of them.
2. Walk towards it yourself and let your foot push it on as you go.
3. Put it back and let them walk up to it.
4. Cheer when their foot sends it rolling, however it happens.

Why it matters

Walking straight into a ball is how most kicking begins, and every push teaches them the ball moves when their foot meets it.

What they're learning

Moving the ball with a foot

Seeing the ball roll away from their shoe is the idea kicking grows from.

Walking balance

Keeping upright while one foot meets the ball is harder than it looks.

Stepping onto the standing leg

Walking up to the ball puts their weight on one leg just as the other swings.

What to look for

Watch for them heading back to the ball on their own for another go.

A tip

Shoes with a good grip beat socks on a smooth floor. Clear a space first and use a soft, light ball.

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