⚽ AYSO 128 Playground & Schoolyard Soccer
Introductory Soccer Programs for Our Youngest Players
🌱 Playground Soccer (Ages 3-4)
What is Playground Soccer?
Playground Soccer is AYSO's introductory soccer program designed specifically for 3- and
4-year-olds. It introduces children to soccer through fun movement, simple games, and playful
activities rather than formal matches.
What is the main goal of Playground Soccer?
The goal is to spark a love for soccer while helping young children develop:
- Basic motor skills (running, stopping, turning)
- Coordination and balance
- Confidence in group settings
- Listening and following simple instructions
The focus is fun first, not competition.
Do parents participate?
Yes! Playground Soccer is parent-participation friendly. Parents may be on the field to help guide,
encourage, and support their child - especially important at this age.
Are there games or scores?
No. There are no formal games, no scores, and no standings. Activities are short, age-appropriate,
and designed to match each child's attention span.
Who runs Playground Soccer?
Sessions are led by AYSO-trained volunteers using AYSO-approved activities and the Positive
Coaching philosophy.
Why should I start my child in Playground Soccer?
Playground Soccer helps children:
- Feel comfortable on a soccer field
- Build confidence before team play
- Learn in a pressure-free environment
- Transition smoothly into AYSO Core soccer later
It's the perfect first step into youth soccer.
🏫 Schoolyard Soccer (Ages 4-5)
What is Schoolyard Soccer?
Schoolyard Soccer is designed for kindergarten-age and early elementary players
who are ready for more structure but still benefit from a learning-through-play approach.
How is Schoolyard Soccer different from Playground Soccer?
Schoolyard Soccer introduces:
- Light team concepts
- Simple soccer rules
- Short, informal scrimmages
- Greater independence from parents
It is a bridge between Playground Soccer and full Core AYSO soccer.
Are there real games in Schoolyard Soccer?
Yes - but they are small-sided, informal, and instructional. There are
no standings, no playoffs, and no pressure to win.
What skills do players learn?
Players develop:
- Dribbling and ball control
- Passing and shooting basics
- Understanding space and movement
- Teamwork and sportsmanship
All instruction follows AYSO's Player Development philosophy.
Who coaches Schoolyard Soccer?
Coaches are AYSO-registered and trained volunteers who emphasize:
- Positive reinforcement
- Equal participation
- Safe, supportive learning
Every child plays and learns.
Why choose Schoolyard Soccer instead of jumping straight into Core?
Schoolyard Soccer is ideal for children who:
- Are new to soccer
- Need confidence before structured league play
- Learn best through guided play
It builds skills without overwhelming young players.
❤️ AYSO Philosophy Behind Both Programs
Both Playground and Schoolyard Soccer are grounded in AYSO's Six Philosophies:
- Everyone Plays®
- Balanced Teams
- Open Registration
- Positive Coaching
- Good Sportsmanship
- Player Development
These programs are about kids first, soccer second.
👨👩👧 Why Parents Love These Programs
- Safe and age-appropriate
- Focused on fun and confidence
- No pressure, no tryouts
- Family-friendly environment
- Strong foundation for future soccer success
🚀 What Comes Next?
Graduates are perfectly prepared to move into:
- AYSO Core Program (U6 / U8)
- Or continue building confidence before competitive play