Soccer lessons cost $40 to $100 per lesson for individual soccer lessons with a private coach. In-demand private coaches with a robust client roster charge higher rates than new coaches with fewer students. Coaches with years of experience and former college or professional soccer players also charge higher rates for their training services.

Small group lessons with 2 to 5 students taught by a private coach are more affordable at $35 to $65 per lesson, per student. The small group training offers the same benefits but costs less. The students are grouped together by skill level and get the added benefit of practicing together.

Other options for soccer lessons include free or low-cost online video soccer lessons, digital soccer training online using an app, or training on your own with an app-enabled smart soccer training ball.

Most soccer lessons for kids last an hour. Coaches may offer shorter half-hour lessons for their youngest students since they don't always have the attention span for a full hour lesson. Some coaches offer longer lessons up to 2 hours for older students wanting to work on more specialized skills. Individual lessons for goalkeepers can last from 30 minutes to more than an hour for the specialty training.

Most parents agree that private soccer lessons are worth the price to help their child reach their long-term development goals. A good soccer coach will not only improve their game but will also improve their confidence. A good coach gets back to the basics to ensure they have a strong foundation before moving on to more advanced skills. They also provide the motivation they need to practice, work hard, and improve.

On the other hand, a bad coach can actually cause harm to a player's game. A coach that yells or belittles a player can lead them to stop trying or grow to hate the sport. Be sure to find a positive and experienced coach that helps your child reach their soccer goals.

All soccer lessons include these fundamental skill drills, regardless of the age or skill level of the players:

• First touch trapping balls on the ground
• Short passing drills (5 to 10 yards) using both feet
• Striking drills (kicking)
• Dribbling drills, or footwork, using different parts of the feet
• Redirecting passes (1 and 2 touch passing drills)

Toddlers as young as 3 years old can start soccer lessons, provided they show an interest and can follow basic directions. They should also have the coordination and gross motor skills to run and kick a ball. Being able to listen and speak clearly is also helpful.

Gauge your child's interest in soccer by getting them a ball and taking them outside in the yard or park to play together. If your child shows some ability in the sport and you want them to learn more, then consider a summer soccer camp, local kids league, or group lessons to get them experienced at playing with other kids.

Every child develops differently, but you can expect to see your child improve with each lesson. There should be a considerable improvement on each skill level after 3 months, provided the child is practicing several times between lessons.

Hiring the right coach makes investing in lessons worthwhile. Here are some recommendations to help you choose the best soccer instructor for your child:

• Choose a coach with years of coaching and playing experience.
• Read their online reviews on Lessons.com or Google.
• Look for private coaches or training camps that fit your budget and availability.
• Look for a coach that is also a good role model, displaying a good attitude on and off the field.
• Ask to attend a session to see the coach in action. Pay attention to how they motivate their students.
• Request references with contact information for current and past clients.

Before you spend money hiring a soccer instructor, be sure you are selecting one that fits your needs by asking some questions, including:

• What is your soccer background?
• Did you play in college or professionally?
• When and why did you start coaching?
• What age groups do you teach?
• How many students are you currently working with?
• How much do you charge for lessons?
• What is your availability?
• Do you offer small group lessons? If so, do you group by age or skill level?
• Do you sell discounted packages of 6 or 12 lessons?