how to teach kids to find space in football

Mastering Space: A Simple Guide to Teach Kids Football Positioning

By John HernandezFebruary 25, 2026

In the dynamic world of football, understanding space and how to use it effectively is a crucial skill that can elevate a player's game. Teaching kids this concept, however, can be a challenge due to its abstract nature. This article will guide you through simple, fun, and effective ways to help young footballers grasp the importance of space in their game.

Before we dive into the teaching methods, let's briefly understand what we mean by 'space' in football. In simple terms, space refers to the areas around and between players that are not occupied by opponents. It's the room a player has to move, receive the ball, and make decisions without immediate pressure from the opposing team.

Understanding Space: The Basics

To teach kids about space, we must first help them understand the concept in a relatable way. Use analogies and real-life examples to make the learning process engaging and interactive.

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For instance, you could explain space as the 'personal bubble' around each player. Just like we need our personal space in daily life to feel comfortable and move freely, football players need space on the pitch to express themselves and play their best game.

Identifying Space on the Pitch

Help kids identify space on the pitch by using visual aids like diagrams or videos. Point out open areas where players could receive the ball, turn, and attack. Discuss how space can be created and exploited, and how it can change throughout a match.

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You can also play simple games like 'Spot the Space' during training sessions. Show the kids a still image or video clip of a football match and ask them to point out the available spaces. This will help them develop a keen eye for spotting opportunities on the pitch.

Creating Space

Teach kids that space isn't always given; sometimes, it needs to be created. Discuss movement off the ball, making runs, and drawing defenders away from the ball to create space for teammates.

Practice drills that focus on creating space through movement. For example, have players practice making runs in behind the defense, or have them move to create space for a teammate to receive the ball. Reinforce the importance of constant movement and communication to create and maintain space.

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Using Space Effectively

Once kids understand the concept of space and how to create it, it's time to teach them how to use it effectively. This involves making good decisions, maintaining possession, and creating scoring opportunities.

Discuss the importance of receiving the ball with time and space, allowing players to control the ball, look up, and make informed decisions. Emphasize the need to use space to draw defenders out of position, creating opportunities for teammates.

Making the Right Decision

Teach kids that having space doesn't always mean they should dribble forward or shoot. They must learn to make the right decision based on the situation. This could involve passing to a teammate in a better position, holding the ball to maintain possession, or switching play to the other side of the pitch.

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Use decision-making games and drills to help kids practice making the right choices under pressure. For example, set up a scenario where players must choose between passing, dribbling, or shooting, and discuss the best option based on the available space and the position of teammates and opponents.

Maintaining Possession

Teach kids the importance of maintaining possession when they have space. Discuss the concept of 'playing simple' - making safe, easy passes to keep the ball and prevent turnovers. Explain how maintaining possession allows the team to control the game and create scoring opportunities.

Practice possession-based drills and small-sided games to help kids develop their passing and receiving skills. Encourage them to play with their heads up, always looking for the next pass and the best option to maintain possession.

As kids develop their understanding of space and how to use it effectively, remind them that this is an ongoing process. Football is a game of constant movement and change, and the ability to read the game and adapt to new situations is crucial. Encourage them to keep learning, keep practicing, and most importantly, keep having fun on the pitch.