How to do keepy-ups ⚽
A keepy-up means tapping a ball into the air again and again without letting it touch the ground. It is one of the first soccer and football skills kids learn, and you can practice it almost anywhere.
What you need
- A soft ball. A light ball or a slightly flat football is easier to start with.
- Lots of space, away from windows and roads.
- Comfortable shoes, or bare feet on soft grass.
Step by step
Drop and catch
Hold the ball, drop it onto the top of your foot, tap it up once and catch it with your hands.
Let it bounce
Let the ball bounce on the ground between taps. Tap, bounce, tap, bounce. This gives you more time.
Use the top of your foot
Keep your ankle firm and your toes pointed a little down, so the ball goes straight up instead of away from you.
Two taps, then three
Try two taps in a row before you catch it. Then three. Count out loud, just like the show.
Add your thigh
When the ball comes up high, lift your knee and let it bounce softly off your thigh.
Switch feet
Use your left foot and your right foot. Players who use both feet keep the ball up longer.
Tips for parents and coaches
- Keep sessions short and fun: five minutes a day is plenty for young kids.
- Celebrate every new record, even going from 2 to 3 touches.
- Young children should practice with their feet, knees and thighs, not their heads.
Practice game: the Keepy-Up Kids challenge
Watch an episode together, then try to beat your own record before the next one. Write your best score on a piece of paper and stick it on the fridge!
Watch the experts
In every Keepy-Up Kids video, kids, grandparents and animals keep the ball up for 10 whole minutes. Watch how they do it, then go and try!