In order to make practices run smoothly and be fun, it is important for us to have a basic understanding of the intellectual, emotional and physical developmental stage of the players we are coaching. Here are some typical characteristics of the Under 5 player.

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CHARACTERISTICS:

• Focused on themselves – reality to them is based on what they see and feel

• Unable to see the world from another’s perspective

• Everything is in the here and now

• Cooling systems are less efficient - need frequent water breaks

• Enjoy playing, not watching. Every player should have a ball in practice

• Limited attention span - keep directions concise and to the point

• Effort is performance – if they try hard, they are doing well

• Active imaginations – utilize their imaginations in activities, they will love practice!

• Look for adult approval – be encouraging when they say “Coach, look what I can do!”

• Unable to think abstractly – spatial relationships are a mystery

• Typically have 2 speeds -- extremely fast and stopped

• Usually unaware of game scores – keep it that way