To foster a love of the game at an early age, Ms. Woods is beginning an innovative new early childhood soccer program this fall.

Described as the world’s first soccer specific physical play program, Socatots teaches basic ball skills, movement and co-ordination exercises in a playful environment. It's often credited for encouraging toddlers to take their first steps to fitness.

Socatots is designed for children aged six months to five years.

"We're sort of lagging here in soccer development," Ms. Woods said. "Obviously compared to England."

Led by certified instructors, Ms. Woods and Ian McClurg, the program has recently expanded to Hamilton, Burlington and Ancaster.

Popular in England, the program was developed by Simon Clifford, founder of Brazilian Soccer Schools.

Sessions include parental participation, with an emphasis on structured play. It uses soccer as a core medium to introduce elements of numeracy, literacy and color identification.

The first local Socatots program is tentatively planned to begin this fall at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Ancaster. Sessions will likely be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Socatots is available in three phases, including six months to walking, walking to two years and 2-5 years. The six week sessions are held year round.

Ms. Woods said Socatots helps very young children develop both physically and socially.

"It improves balance and co-ordination, as well as posture, increases self confidence and teaches toddlers to listen to instructions and participate with a group," she explained.

Ms. Woods has several coaching certifications, including Socatots training she received in the U. K.

Franchise partner, Ian McClurg, has several international coaching certificates including a B license from the Union European Football Association, Canadian Soccer Association and others. He also completed his Socatots trainer certification in the U. K. and has coached children as young as age three.

"In our experience in Canada, children are thrown into the game of soccer at an early age without having learned the skills necessary to play the game," Ms. Woods said. "Our aim is to change that and offer skill development at a younger age through this well researched program which offers so many other benefits as well."

For more on the program, visit www.socatots.com/burlingtonhamilton .