A First Touch Has A Job
The first touch is not just stopping the ball. It should give the player time, space, or a clearer next pass. Start with a touch that stays close, then teach the direction that the practice needs.
Receive Away From Pressure
Use the far foot and an open body shape when the next action is away from a defender. A wide gate or open side makes the intended touch visible to a child.
Add The Scan Later
Once the contact is reliable, add a colour, a call, or a passive defender. The player should learn to see the next option without making the ball arrive faster than they can control it.
Key pages
Football First Touch Drills For Kids
Beginner first-touch drills that help kids control the ball before the next pass or dribble.
Receive Across The Body
A receiving drill that teaches players to take the ball away from pressure and into the next action.
First Touch Colour Call
The feeder calls a colour while the ball is travelling, and the receiver takes the first touch toward that gate.
Scan Before Receive Gates
A receiving drill that makes players look before the ball arrives and choose a safe first-touch direction.
Recommended drills
First Touch Box
A small-box control drill that helps kids cushion the ball and move their first touch into space.
Receive Across The Body
A receiving drill that teaches players to take the ball away from pressure and into the next action.
First Touch Colour Call
The feeder calls a colour while the ball is travelling, and the receiver takes the first touch toward that gate.
Scan Before Receive Gates
A receiving drill that makes players look before the ball arrives and choose a safe first-touch direction.