Are you searching for the best soccer program for toddlers and young children? Parents often find themselves choosing between a nationally franchised program and a local option like Kickstart Toddler Soccer. While franchise programs have name recognition, Kickstart offers unique advantages that make it a stronger choice for families in Southeast Michigan.
1. Locally Owned and Community-Focused
Kickstart isn’t a franchise—it’s a homegrown program built right here in Michigan. For more than 15 years, we’ve been serving families across Southeast Michigan and have grown into the largest toddler sports program in the state, with more than 10,000 players per year participating. Behind Kickstart are Frank and Kelly Schodowski, who each bring over 20 years of soccer instruction and coaching experience. Their passion for the game and dedication to early childhood development have shaped Kickstart into a trusted program that blends professional-level knowledge with a strong community focus. Because we aren’t tied to a corporate model, we can adapt to the needs of local families and continue investing directly back into the program.
2. Coaches Who Are Trained and Supported
At Kickstart, coaches aren’t just hired to fill a position—they go through a comprehensive training program designed by our staff. This program covers the psychological, physiological, and physical components of play, giving our coaches a deep understanding of how toddlers learn, move, and grow. With this knowledge, they’re able to create a safe, encouraging environment where children build confidence, develop motor skills, and enjoy the game. Ongoing mentorship and support ensure every coach is prepared to deliver consistent, high-quality instruction.
3. A Curriculum Designed for Toddlers
Unlike franchise programs that adapt adult soccer drills for kids, Kickstart was designed from the ground up with toddlers and young children in mind. Our curriculum begins by teaching children how to move like athletes, developing balance, coordination, and agility as the foundation. From there, we gradually introduce soccer fundamentals and concepts in fun, age-appropriate ways. As children progress, they are guided toward light competitive play, giving them the confidence and skills to transition smoothly into more structured soccer experiences as they grow.
4. A Program Built on Quality and Value
At Kickstart, we focus on delivering the highest quality experience for children and families. Our investment goes into expert-designed curriculum, comprehensive coach training, and dedicated customer support—all of which ensure every child has a positive and enriching experience. Families choose Kickstart because they recognize the value of a program built on excellence, not just enrollment numbers.
5. Personalized Communication and Support
At Kickstart, families receive extensive customer support. Our full-time administrative staff is dedicated to answering inquiries quickly and thoroughly, making sure parents always have the information and assistance they need. This level of service ensures families feel supported every step of the way, from registration through the completion of each semester’s classes.
6. Growth That Puts Kids First
Franchises often focus on expansion and enrollment numbers. At Kickstart, our priority is simple: the quality of your child’s experience. We measure success by how much kids grow in confidence, skills, and love for the game—not by how fast we can scale.
Why Families Choose Kickstart
Kickstart Toddler Soccer offers something different than a franchise can provide: a program built on quality at every level. From the expertise of our founders, to the training of our coaches, to the curriculum that develops both athletic movement and soccer skills, Kickstart is designed with your child’s growth in mind. Families trust us because we put excellence, care, and community first—and that makes all the difference.
➡️ Ready to see the difference? Register today at kickstart toddler soccer.com
and join one of our 10 Michigan locations this semester.