Recreation Ages & Programs

The McLean U3-U5 Parent & Player Soccer Program is a recreational, development-oriented, family activity program. During every session the player and the parent are engaged in fun soccer-related games. These activities are led by trained McLean Youth Soccer staff coaches and take place in a circle.

Your child will have fun while developing balance, coordination, and important social skills. This is not a drop off or "stand aside and watch" program for the adults. You will be participating in the activities with your player as the parents form the boundary of a circle to help the young players to feel secure and also play along in many of the games.

The players will learn real soccer skills in a game format where the activity is designed to bring out each particular skill. The children learn from playing! The staff coaches model the skills, and the players can imitate the staff. The games replicate the demands of a real soccer game.

Players meet once per week for 45 minutes to an hour with club staff and each player's parent. An adult must participate along with the player. There are six (6) sessions per season which are held on Saturday mornings (subject to weather conditions).

FAQs

What should I bring?

• Dress appropriately for changing weather conditions.
• Every registered player will receive a t-shirt.
• Bring plenty of water and a size three soccer ball with your child's name on it.
• We recommend the children wear cleats or turf shoes; wet grass is slippery and cleats will be required as they get older.
• Shin guards are recommended.
• Adults should come in comfortable footwear suitable for moving and dribbling a ball.

Is my child going to be placed on a team? Or will my child play in actual structured games?

Your child will be playing in the same group each week and have the same staff coach leading the activities.  We do not form actual teams and no actual formal, structured games will be played.

Can I leave my child at the session?

One adult must participate with each child for the whole of each session. If you ever have to step away for a moment, you must have another adult assume responsibility for your child. Your full attention should be devoted to your child and the session.

Can I bring my other children to the sessions?

As long as you are still able to give your full attention to the player, other children may come and watch. You are going to be playing along, so babies in arms will present difficulties. If your child has an older sibling, they may be allowed to fill in for you during the class as long as you are present.

I have twins. May I participate with both of them?

Yes, although the sessions will be better for all if you have one adult per child.