Struggling with misbehaviour at your junior football sessions?

Gone are the days of punishing kids with press-ups or shuttle runs

Here’s how to keep kids engaged (without shouting or shuttle!)…

Are Kids Being “Bad” or Are They Just Bored?

If most of the group is losing focus, it’s often the activity not the child.

Long lines cause chatting + messing around

Slow transitions create downtime

Too many instruction/stoppages = attention drops fast

Tip: Build sessions that move quickly and keep players active.

Reduce Lines. Increase Football.

Kids can misbehave when they have to wait for a long time.

Try:

Ball each games

2–3 small areas instead of 1 (duplicate your activities)

More reps, fewer queues

Engagement kills misbehaviour.

Arrival Games Are a Game-Changer

Arrival matches settle kids instantly.

Try 5 minutes of:

1v1s

2v2s

Mini skill challenges

Goal-scoring races

Benefits:

They burn off energy and get them into “football mode” to hopefully reduce silliness later.

Don’t Panic If They’re Not Looking at You

Kids can listen even while fidgeting, hopping around, or looking everywhere except your face.

The ones staring at you may still forget everything you said!

Tip: Keep demos/instructions short then let them play.

Make Expectations Clear

Sometimes misbehaviour is just unclear rules.

Before the session:

Keep expectations simple

Use the same 2–3 cues every week

Use games like “Last one in wins” to get them in quickly

Consistency over shouting.

Work With Parents, Not Against Them

If one child repeatedly disrupts the group:

Speak to the parent early

Ask, “Is there anything that helps them focus?”

Be curious, not confrontational

There may be learning differences, anxiety, or simply a different communication style.

Seek understanding before consequences.

Praise the Behaviour You Want

Instead of correcting every mistake…

Over-praise the kids who are listening and trying.

It will ripple through the group.

Try:

“Love how Sam got started straight away.”

“Amazing effort from this group here!”

Use a ‘Trainer of the Week’ to reinforce positive habits.

Kids chase praise more than they fear punishment.

For more hands-on advice you can use this week, catch the full episode on our podcast.

Search Shouting From The Sidelines wherever you get yours.