Best football training aids for kids (UK, 2026)
You do not need much to practise at home. A ball, some space and one or two simple aids is enough. Here are five that suit young players.
What to buy first
A wall and a ball cost nothing. If you want to add something, a rebounder gives passing and first touch practice (see our football rebounders guide). Cones and a ladder add footwork. A cord trainer adds close control. A target net adds shooting accuracy. Pick one that matches what your child wants to work on.
Agility ladder and football cones set
6 metre agility ladder plus cones · Listing says weather-resistant · ASIN B0G8R7R3C4
Who it suits
Footwork, speed and dribbling drills. Cones also mark out goals and slalom courses. The most reviewed of the sets we looked at.
When to pick something else
It is for footwork, not ball skill. If your child mostly wants touches on the ball, try the cord trainer or a rebounder.
Affiliate link · Opens the Amazon UK product page. Check the price, size and delivery there.
Mitre Solo Close Control and Skills Training Aid
Ball not included (listed as "without football") · 5 ft stretch cord · wrist strap · fits size 3, 4 or 5 balls · ASIN B01N6ZU7B7
Who it suits
Solo practice of close control and juggling-style touches, and it keeps the ball coming back. Well reviewed from a known football brand.
When to pick something else
It uses a wrist strap and cord, so use it with space around you and supervise young children. Dispatch time on Amazon was 2 to 3 days when we checked.
Affiliate link · Opens the Amazon UK product page. Check the price, size and delivery there.
PodiuMax Football Kick Trainer
Waist belt and ball net · fits size 3, 4 or 5 balls · ASIN B078L4FJXB
Who it suits
Kids who want to practise kicks and control hands-free. The listing says the belt is adjustable.
When to pick something else
The listing describes it for teens and adults, so check the belt fits a smaller child. Mitre Solo is the simpler choice for little ones.
Affiliate link · Opens the Amazon UK product page. Check the price, size and delivery there.
Happy Jump 3-in-1 Football Target Net
Shooting target with ball bag · listing says it holds 9 standard balls · ASIN B0C7ZZ2VDS
Who it suits
Shooting accuracy. It hangs on a goal or fence and doubles as a bag for the balls.
When to pick something else
It needs a goal or something to attach to. Check what you will fix it to.
Affiliate link · Opens the Amazon UK product page. Check the price, size and delivery there.
FLICK Urban Mini Wall Football Rebounder
66 x 31 cm · lightweight and portable · ASIN B0CGM31CLK
Who it suits
Passing and first-touch practice on a patio or in a small space. It is the same mini wall in our rebounders guide.
When to pick something else
It is small, so it will not catch shots. For bigger nets and boards see the rebounders guide.
Affiliate link · Opens the Amazon UK product page. Check the price, size and delivery there.
Questions parents ask
What is the best training aid for a 7 year old?
A ball, cones and a small rebounder or a cord trainer. Keep it fun and short, 15 to 20 minutes.
Do training aids help a child get into an academy?
They help practice, but no product guarantees selection. Regular touches with both feet and good coaching matter more.
What can I use if I do not want to buy anything?
Bottles or shoes as cones, a wall for passing, and a ball. Start there.