Start Smart Preschool Programs

The Start Smart Sports Program

Start Smart Programs, created by the National Alliance for Youth Sports, help kids get ready for sports and succeed in life. It is an innovative step-by-step approach that builds confidence and self-esteem in a fun and safe sports environment.

The Battle Creek Recreation Department is a Start Smart recreation agency. We offer Start Smart Sports Development Programs that are developmentally appropriate for children 3-5 years old. These introductory programs prepare children for organized sports, in a fun non-threatening environment. Our Start Smart programs prepare children and their parents for organized sports without the threat of competition or the fear of getting hurt.

Programs include Basketball, Soccer, and Tennis, a general skill development program and a pre-school sport camp. Contact the Recreation office to learn what Start Smart programs are being offered. To learn more about Start Smart Programs visit the National Alliance for Youth Sports.

Start Smart Sports Development

This program is run in the month of October on Tuesday nights and is designed to prepare children ages 3-5 organized sports in a fun, learning-centered, and non-threatening environment. It allows for participants the opportunity to work one-on-one with a parent and learn a variety of skills that can be used in multiple sports. The curriculum teaches skills that include: throwing, batting, catching, and kicking. A parent/guardian is required to participate at each class!

Start Smart Basketball

Start Smart Basketball prepares your child for organized basketball in a fun, safe environment. It allows children to work one-on-one with a parent and learn a variety of basketball skills including: passing, dribbling, ball handling, shooting, catching, running, and agility. Participants, with their parents, will engage in several stations to teach the fundamentals of basketball. A parent/guardian is required to participate at each class.

Tiny Tot Floor Hockey

Tiny Tot Floor Hockey (Ages 3-5) teaches the basic fundamental skills of floor hockey. Classes are broken up into stations to optimize physical activity for each child. Children gain an appreciation for the game in a fun, safe environment. This introduction to the sport will help to encourage a lifetime of activity in the game. A parent/guardian is required to participate at each class.

Start Smart Indoor Soccer

Start Smart Indoor Soccer (Ages 3-5) is an exciting addition to our ever popular outdoor soccer program. This starter course is designed to get your child ready for the 2020 Spring Soccer season. A parent/guardian is required to participate at each session.
Location: Full Blast
Dates: Tuesdays (March 3rd - 24th) OR Thursdays (March 5th - 26th)
Times: 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM
Cost: $30 per participant

Tiny Tot Golf

Tiny Tot Golf (Ages 3-5), a great introductory course for The First Tee Program, teaches the basic fundamental skills of golf. Classes are broken up into stations to optimize physical activity for each child. Children gain an appreciation for the game in a fun, safe environment. A parent/guardian is required to participate at each class!
Location: The First Tee of Battle Creek at Binder Park Golf Course
Dates: Tuesdays & Thursdays (April 21st - 30th)
Times: 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM
Cost: $30 per participant