“Eyes on Me!”: Real-Life Ways to Help Your Child Learn to Follow Directions (Without the Power Struggle)
If you’ve ever said, “I just told you to put your shoes on…” while your child is now wearing one shoe, holding a snack, and explaining a completely unrelated story—you’re not alone.
Learning to listen and follow directions is a skill. And like any skill, it takes practice, patience, and the right environment. The good news? You can help build this skill every day—often without even realizing it.
Here are some real-life, parent-tested ways to help your child improve their ability to listen and follow directions, plus how programs like Mighty Kicks support this growth in a fun and engaging way.
1. Turn Everyday Tasks Into Simple “Games”
Kids respond better to directions when they feel like play.
Instead of:
“Clean up your toys.”
Try:
“Can you put three toys in the bin before I count to ten?”
You’ve:
Given a clear direction
Made it fun
Added a goal
This mirrors how Mighty Kicks coaches give simple, achievable instructions like:
“Dribble to the cone and stop the ball with your foot.”
Short, clear directions help children succeed—and success builds confidence.
2. Give One Direction at a Time (Yes, Just One 😄)
Young children aren’t ignoring you—they’re overwhelmed.
Instead of:
“Get your shoes, put on your jacket, and meet me at the door.”
Try:
“First, get your shoes.”
Once that’s done:
“Now, put on your jacket.”
Mighty Kicks uses this same approach on the field. Coaches break activities into one-step instructions, helping kids stay focused and engaged instead of confused.
3. Make Eye Contact Before Giving Directions
Before you give an instruction:
Get down to their level
Say their name
Make eye contact
This small step makes a big difference.
At Mighty Kicks, coaches always get a child’s attention before giving instructions—often using fun cues like “Sharks, eyes on me!” Kids learn that listening starts with focusing.
4. Let Them Practice Following Directions Without Pressure
Children need chances to practice listening when the stakes are low.
Try this at home:
“Hop to the couch.”
“Walk like a penguin to the kitchen.”
“Freeze when I say stop!”
These playful moments build listening skills naturally.
Mighty Kicks sessions are full of these opportunities. Kids follow directions through movement-based games that feel fun—not forced.
5. Praise Effort, Not Just Results
Instead of focusing only on perfect listening, celebrate the attempt:
“I love how you tried to listen.”
“You did a great job stopping when I asked.”
“Thanks for following directions!”
Positive reinforcement is a core part of Mighty Kicks. When children feel encouraged, they’re more likely to try again—and improve.
6. Build Listening Into Active Play (Not Just Quiet Time)
Expecting young children to sit still and listen for long periods isn’t realistic. They learn best through movement.
That’s why programs like Mighty Kicks work so well:
Kids listen while moving
Instructions are tied to action
Energy is channeled, not suppressed
Following directions becomes part of the fun.
Why Mighty Kicks Helps Build Real-Life Listening Skills
Mighty Kicks is designed for children ages 2–5 and focuses on more than just soccer. Each class naturally reinforces:
Listening to a coach
Following simple directions
Taking turns
Responding to cues and signals
All in a positive, encouraging environment where kids feel safe to try.
Parents often notice that the listening skills learned on the field start showing up at home, school, and daycare too.
Progress, Not Perfection
Your child doesn’t need to follow every direction perfectly to be successful. What matters is building the habit of listening, responding, and trying.
With consistent practice at home—and structured, fun environments like Mighty Kicks—those skills grow faster than you might expect.
And who knows… maybe the shoes will even end up on the right feet next time 😉
Looking for a fun way to support your child’s listening and confidence?
Mighty Kicks helps kids learn to follow directions, build confidence, and have fun—all at the same time.