ABOUT LITTLE SPARKS

Little Sparks is the Chicago Fire's introduction to soccer program where children and parents can take their first steps in soccer together!

Specifically designed for children aged 2 to 4 years old and using the fun of play and imaginative stories, Little Sparks facilitates a child's physical, mental, and social-emotional development through the game of soccer!

Little Sparks uses three key principles (experiential play, creative learning, holistic activity) to build an environment for children to learn and explore different outcomes associated with soccer and self-development.

PARENTS PLAY TOO!

Little Sparks is unique in that it incorporates mom and dad into the child’s learning experience.

With the support of mom and dad, children are able to truly be comfortable and express themselves in order to maximize each session. This experience will not only strengthen the parent-child bond, but also elevate each child’s enjoyment and development.

CHILDREN WILL EXPLORE THEIR CAPABILITIES TO:

Learn fundamental soccer skills (dribbling, passing, catching and throwing)

Develop fundamental movement skills (agility, balance, coordination and speed)

Experience key social and emotional attributes (listening, communication, self-esteem, awareness and teamwork)

Please refer to the FAQ's section at the bottom of the page for more information.

LOCATIONS

CHICAGO
REGISTER
LOCATION
DATES
DAYS
TIME
AGES
Skyline Pitch
August 31 - October 19
Saturdays
9:00 am - 9:50 am
2 - 3 years
Skyline Pitch
August 31 - October 19
Saturdays
10:00 am - 10:50 am
3 - 4 years
Blaine Elementary
September 8 - October 28
Sundays
9:00 am - 9:50 am
2 - 3 years
Blaine Elementary
September 8 - October 28
Sundays
10:00 am - 10:50 am
3 - 4 years
Opens November 1st
Fire Pitch
December 1 - 22
Sundays
9:00 am - 9:50 am
2 - 3 years
Opens November 1st
Fire Pitch
December 1 - 22
Sundays
10:00 am - 10:50 am
3 - 4 years
Opens December 1st
Fire Pitch
January 5 - February 9
Sundays
9:00 am - 9:50 am
2 - 3 years
Opens December 1st
Fire Pitch
January 5 - February 9
Sundays
10:00 am - 10:50 am
3 - 4 years
Opens February 1st
Fire Pitch
February 16 - March 23
Sundays
9:00 am - 9:50 am
2 - 3 years
Opens February 1st
Fire Pitch
February 16 - March 23
Sundays
10:00 am - 10:50 am
3 - 4 years
SUBURBS
REGISTER
LOCATION
DATES
DAY(S)
TIME
AGES
Park District of Oak Park
September 4 - 25
Wednesdays
4:00 pm - 4:50 pm
3 - 4 years
North Riverside
September 7 - October 26
Saturdays
8:00 am - 9:00 am
2 - 4 years
Northbrook Park District
September 9 - October 22
Mondays
4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
3 - 4 years
Lemont Park District
October 3 - 24
Thursdays
4:00 pm - 4:50 pm
3 - 4 years
Park District of Oak Park
October 9 - 30
Wednesdays
4:00 pm - 4:50 pm
3 - 4 years

PHOTOS

TESTIMONIALS

Little Sparks 3
Little Sparks 2
Little Sparks 1-2

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why Little Sparks?

Little Sparks is Chicago Fire FC’s official intro to soccer program, led by trained and certified Chicago Fire FC coaches. Little Sparks delivers a specially and appropriately designed, soccer curriculum, working towards key learning and development outcomes while providing a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn and grow through the game of soccer.

Parents play too!

Little Sparks is unique in that it incorporates mom and dad into the child’s learning. With the support of mom and dad, children are able to be truly comfortable and express themselves in order to maximize each session. This experience will not only strengthen the parent-child bond, but also elevate each child’s enjoyment and development.

What should I expect at a Little Sparks session?

A Little Sparks session will follow these core guidelines:

  1. Kick Start (10 min) – Introduction to key movement objectives
  2. Imaginative Story (10 min) – A themed story will lead children through activities using the ball
  3. Imaginative Play (10 min) – Children play and interact freely in a safe and inclusive environment
  4. Goals, Goals, Goals (10 min) – Coach provides a wide variety of scoring opportunities
  5. Final Whistle (10 min) – Opportunity to reflect on experiences and leave with a smile

Who are the coaches for Little Sparks?

All of our coaches are licensed and experienced with specialist knowledge in working and teaching younger children through soccer. Every coach is carefully selected and goes through a comprehensive background check to ensure child safety.

What does my child need for class?

We ask that all participants wear comfortable clothes and some form of closed-toe shoe, including tennis shoes, indoor soccer shoes, or cleats. In addition, we ask that each participant has a filled water bottle to hydrate.

Children are more than welcome to wear shin guards if they wish. We also ask that every participant bring their own soccer ball, as those are not provided by our coaches. A size 3 ball is recommended. 

How many children are in each class?

We do our best to maintain a 10:1 player to coach ratio in all classes, however, this number may go up to 12 in special scenarios.

Can I drop my child off for class and leave?

The Little Sparks experience is heavily influenced by the parent being at their child’s side, which is why we require adult participation.

How do I register?

Our online registration makes it easy for us to collect important medical information and parents to sign waivers prior to the week of the program. When registered online you will receive a confirmation email that we have received your registration. Online payment can be made via MasterCard, Visa, or American Express.

Who can I contact if I have more questions about Little Sparks?

INTERESTED IN SETTING UP A LITTLE SPARKS PROGRAM WITH YOUR ORGANIZATION

contact information for introduction to soccer programs