Developmentally Appropriate Soccer Activities for Elementary School Children
JOPERD: The Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance
The article examines a series of youth sport perspectives and how they can be applied to physical education programs in elementary schools. The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) Coaching Schools have a different curriculum for children ages 14 and above than children 13 years and below. The reason for the difference in approach is that younger children are still developing their motor skills, and they should start with basic concepts like controlling the ball and wall-passing. Yet, players will see that there are a lot of differences between skill development and game play when the focus is on tactics rather than learning the skill. Children need developmentally appropriate practice in a safe and healthy environment. For the youngest children, there are age-appropriate activities that reflect a developmental approach in grasping basic movement principles, body awareness, technical skill, and tactical awareness.
Quinn R, Carr D. Developmentally Appropriate Soccer Activities for Elementary School Children. JOPERD: The Journal Of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance [serial online]. May 2006;77(5):13
Quinn, Ronald and Carr, David, "Developmentally Appropriate Soccer Activities for Elementary School Children" (2006). Faculty Scholarship. 19.