How Football Helps Kids Develop Social Skills

Every session is a chance for connection. At We Make Footballers, our motto “Practice Makes Permanent” shapes each training moment. Whether a child is kicking a ball for the first time or improving ball control, they’re also learning how to connect, listen and encourage others. Football social skills aren't just about the game—they’re about learning to speak up, support a teammate and thrive in a team environment. With over 90 academies in the UK and more than 4,000 children training weekly, our sessions blend skill-building with social growth in a safe, welcoming space where teamwork leads the way.

Football for Kids Social Development: How Football Helps Kids Develop Social Skills

Each child at We Make Footballers progresses through a 39-week structured programme designed to support both technical and personal growth. Weekly themes—whether passing, positioning or decision-making—come with lessons in turn-taking, active listening and respect. Sessions are intentionally small in size, starting with warmups, moving through core skills and ending with mini matches. These consistent routines help children recognise the value of patience, shared responsibility and empathy. Through small wins and team efforts, they develop communication, resilience and a stronger sense of belonging.

Football Lessons Children: Building Communication Skills

Football lessons children take part in help them find their voice. Each pass and movement encourages teamwork. Our sessions teach children how to call for the ball, offer encouragement and communicate with their teammates clearly. From quick chats before drills to positive feedback during play, communication becomes part of their rhythm—and parents often notice the change beyond the pitch.

• Call-and-pass drill: players name a teammate before passing the ball (3 minutes)
• Signal-swap relay: use hand gestures to switch positions in a sequence (4 minutes)
• Mini-huddle planning: small teams quickly discuss a play before scrimmage (5 minutes)

Kids Football Communication Skills: Speaking Up on the Field

Whether it’s calling out “man on!” or signalling for a pass, communication on the pitch builds clarity and confidence. We Make Footballers coaches ensure every child gets a chance to lead and speak within their group. Through repeated encouragement, shy players grow into vocal teammates. Body language like eye contact, pointing and high-fives further supports non-verbal cues. A paired-buddy system also helps less confident players interact more comfortably, creating a culture where every child feels seen and heard.

Teamwork Football Kids: Building Team Spirit

Small teams help children understand the value of unity. Every pass, intercept and shot connects the group. In We Make Footballers’ small-sided games, players learn to anticipate others’ moves and celebrate collective efforts. Coaches praise every high-five and encourage players to value every role—whether supporting from the back or leading a run. The atmosphere is one where group progress is always more important than individual outcomes.

Cooperation Through Football Drills

Drills at We Make Footballers are designed to foster cooperation and mutual respect:

• Rondo circles: one in the middle, others pass around—timing and trust (4 minutes)
• Relay and return: teammates pass and switch through an agility course—cohesion and balance (3 minutes)
• Rotating possession: players alternate spots in a passing grid—communication and rhythm (5 minutes)

These routines teach awareness, sharing responsibility and collaborative problem-solving.

Making Friends Football: Building Bonds at WMF

Many friendships begin with a shared goal or a laugh during warm-up. Making friends football at We Make Footballers happens naturally, as children are paired with others and encouraged to work together. Sessions are inclusive, structured and safe, with clear anti-bullying policies and nut-free environments. Coaches check in regularly to ensure no one feels left out. Children chat, plan strategies and learn to support each other, often forming lasting friendships that extend beyond the pitch.

Can WMF Football Academy Social Skills Program Help Your Child?

Whether it’s through weekly group training, a holiday camp or one-on-one coaching, We Make Footballers offers opportunities for children to grow socially as well as technically. Our programmes are open to all ability levels and supported by enhanced DBS-checked coaches. Each session includes supervision, first-aid availability and clear behavioural expectations. The result? A space where young players gain confidence, form friendships and build essential life skills through football.

Ready to see your child build strong social connections and a love for teamwork? Book a free taster session at your nearest UK academy today through our easy online tool.