Why patience matters more than instructions in children’s sport

One of the hardest things for coaches (and parents) is knowing when NOT to step in.

It’s tempting to correct every mistake and instruct every moment.

But children often learn more when they’re given time.

Time to try

Time to get it wrong

Time to work things out for themselves

When we first started Foot-Tech, we quickly learned that over-instruction wasn’t the way.

It often led to children switching off, second-guessing themselves or relying too heavily on adults.

Plus it gets very annoying when they’re trying to concentrate but constantly have people trying to tell them what to do!

That’s why our coaching team is trained to be patient. To guide without giving answers right away.

We focus on creating space for children to think, explore and grow rather than over-instructing and dictating their every move.

Patience helps confidence, decision-making and enjoyment develops naturally.

Sometimes the most helpful thing an adult can do is step back and let the game teach.