Kickstart

A fun, active, and positive first soccer experience for young players ages 3-4.

What is Kickstart?

Kickstart is AYSO’s beginner soccer program for young and first-time players. It is designed to introduce children to soccer in a fun, active, and low-pressure environment.

Kickstart looks different from traditional youth soccer on purpose. Instead of focusing on competition too early, Kickstart gives kids the chance to move, play, explore, and enjoy the game in a way that fits their age and stage of development.

The goal is simple: help children build confidence, have fun, and fall in love with soccer from the very beginning.

Kickstart is built to help young players enjoy the game, stay active, and grow in confidence from day one.

Why Kickstart is Different

Many youth sports programs can feel over-structured and adult-driven. Kickstart is designed to give the game back to the kids.

By creating a play-based environment, children can be more creative, more active, and more confident. This style of play helps kids learn naturally while enjoying the experience.

Benefits of Kickstart

• Physical health and movement
• Creativity and problem-solving
• Social and emotional growth
• Confidence and independence
• A welcoming and inclusive play environment

What Happens in a Kickstart Session?

Each Kickstart session is simple, active, and designed to keep players moving.

A session may include:

• A fundamental movement activity, such as skipping, balancing, or running
• A fun soccer activity that builds basic skills
• A small-sided game, such as 2v2 or 3v3

Each session also includes a social and emotional learning theme, such as teamwork, sharing, helping others, or listening.

Why Parents Choose Kickstart

• It feels welcoming and low-pressure
• It focuses on fun and development
• It helps children build confidence
• It works well for young children and first-time players
• It is offered through a trusted organization
• It encourages parent support and involvement

For many children, Kickstart is their first organized activity. The program is designed to make that first experience positive, fun, and memorable.

How Kickstart Helps Children Grow

• Introduces basic movement and ball familiarity
• Helps children feel comfortable in a group setting
• Encourages listening and following simple directions
• Prepares players for a smooth transition into team-based soccer

The goal is not to rush children into competition, but to help them grow at the right pace and enjoy the game.

AYSO Values

As an official AYSO program, Kickstart is built on the AYSO philosophies:

• Everyone Plays®
• Positive Coaching
• Player Development
• Good Sportsmanship
• Open Registration
• Balanced Teams

Kickstart introduces these values from the very beginning of a player’s soccer journey.

Kickstart at a Glance

• Who: Young and first-time players
• Focus: Fun, movement, confidence, and play
• Style: Small-sided, child-centered play
• Environment: Welcoming, active, and low-pressure
• Goal: Happy kids, confident families, and a great start in soccer