At Little Kickers Harpenden the focus is very much on fun – a national network of informal yet professionally run training classes where enthusiastic boys & girls (18mths – 7th birthday) are given a helping hand to stand on their own two feet.

We have four different football classes each tailored to a different age group. However, we have two core beliefs that we take into every session.

Firstly, we believe in something we call “Play not Push”. It means teaching football in a fun, pressure-free environment. We want to give children a positive introduction to sport as a whole, not just football, so they’re more likely to stay healthy and active throughout their lives.

Secondly, we believe football can be educational. Coached in the right way it can stimulate imagination and aid early development skills such as learning colours and numbers, following instructions and playing as a team.

It’s an approach that has bagged us numerous awards and helped us expand globally over the last 16 years. And like all our Kickers, we never stop learning. We’re continually improving and updating our classes, based on feedback and input from child health specialists as well as our network of over 2,250 football coaches worldwide.

2½ years to 3 ½ years (Parent participation not required but parents/carers are required to stay with their children) Junior Kickers builds on the foundation skills and football basics learnt in Little Kicks. Using a familiar structure, children are challenged both physically and mentally. For those children who started in Little Kicks, independent participation is encouraged. If your child has just joined us you may need to stay close-by for a few weeks, but the ultimate goal is for children to be able to participate on their own. The format remains learning through play and because children are allowed to work to their own ability, it is suitable for complete beginners. Key Features: - Children are encouraged to play independently of the parent/guardian - 45-minute class - Weekly classes - Two coaches for up to 18 children (max) - Each new starter receives a football kit - 4 unique badges to collect across the Junior Kickers programme

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