Kids love a target. Give them something to aim at and a simple scoring system, and practice suddenly becomes a game. If you have a practice net, a goal or a rebounder, you already have most of what you need. These target games for kids using practice nets work in gardens, parks and halls, and many can be adapted for soccer, throwing sports, mini golf and more.
Before you start: setup and safety
A few basics keep games safe and fun:
- Anchor every net and goal. Use pegs or weights and check them before play. Never let children climb on or hang from frames. See how to anchor a practice net.
- Use age-appropriate balls. Softer, lighter balls are easier and safer for young children.
- Set a clear zone. Players waiting their turn stand well to the side, never behind or near the target.
- Supervise. Young children should always have an adult nearby.
- Keep sessions short. Stop while kids are still having fun.
Our safety page has more general guidance.
The 12 games
1. Corner points
Hang targets in the corners of a goal (or tape squares onto a net). Bottom corners score 1, top corners score 2. First to 10 wins. Great for soccer, handball and throwing.
2. Around the world
Place five markers in an arc in front of the net. Players must hit the target from each marker in turn. Miss and you stay on that marker for your next go.
3. Call it
Before each shot or throw, players call which target they are aiming at. Only the called target counts. This builds focus and honesty.
4. Beat the clock
How many targets can you hit in 30 seconds? Have a pile of balls ready. Keep the distance short so it stays achievable and fun.
5. Knockout
Players take turns. Miss twice in a row and you are out until the next round. Keep rounds quick so nobody waits for long.
6. Colour targets
Use coloured cones, tape or hanging targets on the net. Call out a colour just before the shot. Great for young children learning colours and reactions.
7. Pass through the gate
Place two cones a short distance in front of the net. The ball must go through the gate and into the net. Narrow the gate as players improve.
8. Rebound catch
With a rebounder, throw or kick the ball in and catch or control the return. Score a point for each clean catch or touch. For older kids, use a rebounder net and add one-touch passing.
9. Mini golf chipping
If you have a chipping net, set it up as a "hole". Players chip foam or practice balls into it from different spots. Count shots like a golf round. Soft practice balls are a good choice for young children; follow the net's guidance on which balls to use.
10. Distance ladder
Start close. Hit the target and move back one marker. Miss and move forward one. Who can get furthest after ten turns?
11. Team relay
Split into two teams. One player from each team runs to a marker, takes one shot, then runs back to tag the next player. Each hit scores a point for the team.
12. Treasure targets
Hide small "prize" cards (like "+3 points" or "do 5 jumping jacks") under cones. When a player hits a target, they lift a cone and follow the card. A good way to mix in movement and surprise.
Matching games to sports and nets
| Equipment | Games that work well |
|---|---|
| Soccer goal with targets | Corner points, around the world, call it, knockout |
| Rebounder | Rebound catch, beat the clock, pass through the gate |
| Throwing net or pocket target | Colour targets, distance ladder, team relay |
| Chipping net | Mini golf chipping, around the world |
| Multi-sport backstop | Almost all of them |
If you want one net that can handle several sports, our multi-sport practice net guide explains what to look for.
When choosing nets for children, check the dimensions, weight, frame design and any age guidance in the listing, and read recent reviews before you order.
Tips for different ages
Younger children
- Use big targets, short distances and soft balls.
- Celebrate effort as much as hits.
- Keep games to a few minutes and switch often.
Older children
- Use smaller targets and longer distances.
- Add time limits or scoring pressure.
- Let them design their own rules and scoring.
Mixed ages
- Give younger kids closer markers or bigger targets.
- Use team games so everyone contributes.
Making space work
- Small garden: Use a pop-up goal or small target net, and a ball stop net to protect fences and flower beds.
- Driveway or patio: Use weights instead of pegs, and soft balls to protect windows and cars.
- Park: Bring portable nets and cones, and choose a spot away from paths and other people.
For sport-specific ideas, try our soccer target net drills for older kids who want to improve their finishing.
Frequently asked questions
What age can kids start using practice nets?
Even young children can enjoy simple target games with soft balls, light nets and close distances, as long as an adult supervises and the net is anchored.
What balls are safest for kids' target games?
Softer, lighter balls are usually a good choice for young children. Choose a size they can kick, throw or catch comfortably.
Can I use one net for several games and sports?
Yes. Many multi-sport nets work for kicking, throwing and chipping. Check the mesh size and frame strength in the listing so it suits the balls you plan to use.
How do I keep kids interested?
Keep games short, use scoring and small rewards, change the game often and let kids help invent the rules.
Ready to set up your practice space?
Browse rugby kicking nets and compare sizes on AliExpress.
Some links on this page are affiliate links to AliExpress. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We don’t test or endorse individual listings, so always check the seller, sizes and return policy. Learn more.
