Big Toes Soccer Program
Building Confidence Through Independent Play
Big Toes marks an exciting milestone in your child's soccer journey. At age 3, children are ready for independent play—taking the field on their own while you watch from the sidelines with pride!
In Big Toes, every child has their own soccer ball throughout the entire session, maximizing touches and accelerating skill development. Through imaginative adventures with Bob the Bobcat, your child will master foundational soccer concepts while building confidence and independence.
This program introduces deceptive dribbling skills—creative ball control that makes soccer fun and challenging. Non-competitive and imagination-based, Big Toes focuses on skill mastery, teamwork basics, and self-expression through movement.
What Makes Big Toes Special
Independent Play
Children play on their own with coach guidance—a big developmental step from Little Toes. Parents stay nearby and watch as their child gains confidence.
Own Soccer Ball
Each child has their own ball for maximum touches throughout the entire session. More touches equals faster skill development and greater confidence.
Deceptive Dribbling
Introduction to creative ball control skills. Children learn to move the ball in surprising ways, building coordination and soccer IQ through play.
Imagination-Based
Bob the Bobcat adventures continue! Children go on imaginative journeys ("Pirates in the Sea", "Zoo Adventure") that make learning natural and fun.
Non-Competitive
Focus on skill mastery and personal growth, not winning. Every child progresses at their own pace with encouragement and positive reinforcement.
Flexible Scheduling
Choose weekly preschool/facility classes, weekend leagues, or combine both! Month-to-month enrollment with no long-term contracts.
Skills Your 3-Year-Old Will Develop
Physical Skills
- Foundational soccer concepts
- Deceptive dribbling skills
- Ball control fundamentals
- Balance and coordination
- Gross motor skill development
Cognitive Skills
- Following multi-step directions
- Basic passing concepts
- Self-expression through movement
- Problem-solving through play
Social-Emotional Skills
- Teamwork basics
- Confidence and independence
- Sharing space with peers
- Taking turns
Typical Big Toes Class Structure
Hello Bob the Bobcat
Bob the Bobcat introduction and imaginative theme for the day. Movement games to prepare body and get energy flowing.
Dribbling & Ball Control
Dribbling with changes of direction, ball control exercises, and imaginative play scenarios ("Pirates in the Sea", "Safari Adventure"). Each child works with their own ball.
Teamwork & Challenges
Small-sided games, teamwork activities, and creative challenges. Introduction to sharing space and playing cooperatively with peers.
Wrap-Up & Goodbye
Stretching, reflection on what we learned, and goodbye to Bob. Weekend leagues add a 15-minute game after cooldown.
What to Expect - First Class
Warm Welcome
Coach introduces themselves and makes your child feel comfortable. We understand that independent play is a big step for some 3-year-olds.
Meet Bob the Bobcat
Your child receives their soccer ball and learns about their new friend Bob. This makes the ball feel like a companion rather than just equipment.
Simple Activities
First session focuses on getting comfortable with the ball through simple dribbling activities and imaginative play. No pressure, just fun!
Meeting Friends
Your child meets other children in a supportive group environment. Our coaches facilitate positive interactions and encourage teamwork.
Lots of Encouragement
Positive reinforcement and celebration of every success, no matter how small. We build confidence through achievable challenges.
What Your Child Will Need
Required (bring from home)
- Athletic shoes or soft-sided cleats
- Comfortable athletic clothing (shorts/athletic pants, t-shirt)
- Water bottle
Provided by HappyFeet
- Soccer ball (becomes theirs to keep!)
- All training equipment and cones
- Team jersey (weekend leagues only)
Not Required (but OK to bring)
- Shin guards (not required for weekly classes, required for leagues)
- Prior soccer experience
Parent FAQs for Big Toes
My child is shy. Will they be okay without me on the field?
Our coaches are trained in helping 3-year-olds transition to independent play. Parents stay nearby and watch. We offer a gradual transition if needed—if your child needs extra time to warm up, our coaches are patient and encouraging. Most children adapt quickly when they see other kids having fun with Bob the Bobcat!
What if my child did Little Toes vs starting here?
Both are welcome! Little Toes graduates have familiarity with Bob the Bobcat and the HappyFeet format, which can make the transition smoother. However, new students catch up quickly—our curriculum is designed to welcome beginners. No prerequisite is required.
How is Big Toes different from Little Toes?
Big Toes features independent play with no parent on the field (though you watch from the sidelines). We introduce more advanced deceptive dribbling skills, longer attention span activities, and basic passing concepts. The sessions are designed for the developmental capabilities of 3-year-olds.
Can my child move up to HappyFeeters if they're doing well?
HappyFeeters is designed for ages 4-5. Children age 3 should stay in Big Toes to receive developmentally appropriate activities and instruction. They can advance to HappyFeeters when they turn 4. This ensures they're physically, emotionally, and cognitively ready for the next level.
What if my child gets upset or doesn't want to participate some days?
Totally normal! Three-year-olds have big feelings and some days are harder than others. Our coaches are experienced and understanding. We never force participation—we follow your child's lead. Most children re-engage when they see their friends playing with Bob. You're always nearby if they need reassurance.
Do I need to commit to a full season?
Weekly classes are month-to-month with no long-term contract. Weekend leagues are an 8-week commitment per season. Many families do both—weekly classes for consistent skill development and leagues for game experience.
Available Locations
Big Toes classes are offered at 30+ preschool locations and our indoor facilities throughout the Kansas City metro area.
Merriam
Main facility - 9701 W 67th St, Merriam, KS 66203
Weekly classes & weekend leagues
Lee's Summit (Soccer Box)
105 NW Victoria Dr, Lee's Summit, MO 64086
Weekly classes & weekend leagues
North Kansas City
5369 NE Antioch Rd, Kansas City, MO 64119
Weekly classes & weekend leagues
Overland Park
Outdoor league locations
Weekend leagues (seasonal)
Olathe
Coming soon!
Weekly classes
The HappyFeet Progression Path
Big Toes
Independent play begins
What Parents Are Saying
"My daughter went from shy to confident in just 6 weeks! The coaches are so patient and encouraging. Big Toes was the perfect next step after Little Toes."
"The coaches are amazing with 3-year-olds. My son looks forward to class every week. He talks about Bob the Bobcat all the time!"
"Best decision for my son's development. He's gained so much confidence and coordination. The independent play structure is perfect for his age."
Ready to Get Started?
Register through our mobile app or online. Big Toes classes fill quickly!
Questions? Call (913) 851-9898 x235 or email info@happyfeetkc.com