Sports are a powerful way to shape children’s character.
Football stands out because it combines movement with teamwork in a fun, engaging environment.
At Kixx, we see first-hand the difference great coaching can make. Children’s football coaching is about far more than learning skills with a ball. It’s about helping children grow into confident, resilient, and respectful individuals.
Through every session, children are encouraged to try new things, work together, and build belief in themselves. With the right guidance, these small moments quickly turn into big personal wins—both on and off the pitch.
In this blog, we explore how children’s football coaching plays a key role in developing strong character. From teamwork and communication to resilience and responsibility, discover how football helps shape well-rounded young people ready to thrive in everyday life.
(more…)Across the Kixx network, we are fortunate to work with passionate individuals who dedicate themselves to creating positive experiences for children and families. One of those people is Jonathan D’Laryea — known to many as JD — who leads the growing Kixx Newark and Ollerton children’s football academies.
JD’s journey into coaching and community leadership is built on a strong foundation in both football and education. His experience as a professional footballer, combined with his work as a teacher, helps him create engaging and supportive football sessions where children can grow both on and off the pitch. This approach reflects the wider mission of Kixx — to positively impact children through fun, structured football experiences that build confidence, teamwork and a love of being active. You can learn more about the Kixx mission and philosophy on our About Us page.
Before joining the Kixx family, JD spent time playing professionally with Manchester City. His experience in elite football environments gave him a deep understanding of the game and the dedication required to improve.
However, while his playing career shaped his football knowledge, it is his passion for teaching that defines the way he now coaches young players.
At Kixx, football is about far more than technique. It’s about helping children build confidence, enjoy movement, and develop important life skills.
That philosophy is something JD brings into every session.
JD’s background in education plays a huge role in the quality and consistency of his sessions.
Teachers develop a unique set of skills that translate perfectly into children’s football coaching, including:
Each week, JD delivers sessions that are structured, well prepared and full of energy.
Children are encouraged to try new skills, work together and celebrate progress in a supportive environment. This approach helps children feel safe to learn and excited to keep improving.
Parents regularly comment on the positive atmosphere JD creates — one where children feel comfortable, motivated and eager to return week after week.

One of the most rewarding parts of JD’s journey has been the community that has grown around Kixx Newark and Ollerton.
Across both locations, JD has created welcoming environments where families feel connected and children develop friendships alongside their football skills.
For many families, the weekly sessions become more than just football training. They become a positive routine where children can:
This sense of belonging sits right at the heart of the Kixx mission to positively impact children’s lives through football.
Families looking for children’s football in Newark or Ollerton are discovering the positive impact of Kixx sessions each week. Designed for children aged 2 to 12 years, Kixx sessions combine fun football activities with confidence-building games that help children stay active, make friends and develop new skills. With experienced coaches like JD leading the sessions, families across Newark and Ollerton know their children are learning in a supportive and encouraging environment.
At Kixx, our values guide everything we do:
JD brings these values to life every single week.
His preparation, attention to detail and genuine commitment to every child ensure families receive the high-quality experience they expect from Kixx.
It’s this consistency and care that allows academies like Newark and Ollerton to thrive.
Stories like JD’s highlight something special about the Kixx network.
Many of our franchise partners come from backgrounds in teaching, coaching, sport or community work. For those who want to build something similar in their own community, you can learn more about Kixx franchise opportunities.
Kixx provides the curriculum, support and framework — but it is people like JD who bring the brand to life in their communities.
For families attending our academies, that means their children receive fun, structured football sessions delivered by people who genuinely care about their development. Families can find their nearest Kixx academy and experience the difference for themselves.
And for those who share a passion for coaching, community and helping children grow, it also shows what is possible when you build something meaningful in your local area.
From the very beginning, Kixx has been driven by one simple idea: football can change children’s lives. Over the years, our mission has grown with us. We started with a promise to impact every child at every opportunity. That passion has evolved into a clear, bold goal: to positively impact 100,000 children every single week through football. It isn’t a complete change. It’s the natural next step in a journey we’ve been committed to from day one, and we’d love your child to be part of it through Kixx children’s football.
What Parents Really Care About (and How Kixx Helps)
When parents talk to us about choosing activities, they rarely start with football skills. They start with feelings:
“I want my child to feel confident.”
“My child needs space to make friends.”
“A stressful or overly serious environment won’t suit them.”
“Coaches who understand children make all the difference.”
“And we want something our child genuinely looks forward to.”
A Kixx football academy is built around those needs. Football is the tool. Confidence, joy, development, and belonging are the real outcomes.
The Kixx Experience: More Than Just a Football Class
When your child steps into a Kixx session, they’re not just joining a football activity; they’re joining a community. Parents consistently tell us they notice a warm welcome, coaches who truly care, sessions that feel fun and adventurous, and an environment where children feel they belong. Our coaches design our approach carefully so every child, regardless of experience or confidence level, feels included and supported.

The ORANGE Way – How Children Learn at Kixx
Behind the fun sits our simple, child-friendly coaching framework: the ORANGE way of learning. It helps children learn football while also building essential life skills.
OWN THE BALL: This stage helps children of all abilities develop confidence and control. Through simple, purposeful activities, they gain the freedom to explore and improve their touch at their own pace.
RUN WITH THE BALL: Fun, imaginative challenges help children develop movement skills such as balance, agility and coordination. These activities support both early learners and children who are ready to refine their technique.
ATTACK: Children learn to be brave and creative in attack. They explore when to pass, dribble or shoot and grow their confidence in making decisions on the ball.

NO WAY PAST
Children work together to defend with purpose. They communicate, position themselves and support one another to protect space and build teamwork.
GOALS, GOALS, GOALS
We celebrate progress in many forms: football goals, personal achievements, kindness and effort. Every child, regardless of ability, experiences moments that make them feel proud.
EARN IT BACK
When things don’t go to plan, children learn how to respond positively. This approach strengthens children’s resilience and determination, supporting both beginners and more advanced players as they learn to try again with confidence.
Keeping It Fresh – How We Evolve for Your Child
One of the biggest concerns parents share is whether their child will get bored. That’s why the Kixx football curriculum is constantly evolving. Our sessions feature regularly refreshed themes, challenges, and activities to ensure they stay exciting and meaningful.
We also invest continuously in our coaches. Their ongoing training helps them understand children better, deliver sessions with energy and care, and bring new ideas to every experience. When coaches grow, children feel the benefit every week.
Growing Into New Local Communities
Our mission to impact 100,000 children each week means reaching more families and more locations across the UK. Kixx is expanding into new communities, creating more opportunities for children to experience confidence-building football. If we’re not in your area yet, it may not be long before a Kixx academy appears closer to home.
Why Families Choose Kixx in 2026
Parents choose Kixx because their children come home smiling, because their confidence grows week by week, because they feel safe and included, and because our approach offers real development without pressure. Families stay because Kixx stands for more than football. It stands for values, care, and genuine impact.
Ready to Join Team Orange?
If you’re looking for more than just a football class; if you want your child to feel confident, active, included, and excited each week, Kixx welcomes them.
Find your nearest academy at www.kixx.org.uk
Take a look behind the scenes on our Kixx Coaching Channel: @kixxcoaching
As the year draws to a close, there’s a special energy in the air. Because of this, many people begin to reflect on what they truly want from the year ahead. It’s a time filled with reflection, anticipation, and a quiet spark that seems to whisper: next year could be different.
For PE teachers, community coaches, and sports leaders, this feeling is familiar. You love what you do — helping young people grow in confidence and skill. However, deep down, you know there’s more waiting for you. That’s exactly what the Kixx franchise 2026 offers — the chance to turn your passion for sport and child development into something bigger.
In fact, the Kixx journey is about more than business. It’s an opportunity to transform what you love doing into a meaningful career that brings both purpose and pride. Meanwhile, our national team supports every new franchisee to launch with complete confidence. As a result, you can focus on what matters most: coaching, inspiring, and creating amazing experiences for children.
With the proven support, systems, and national brand power of Kixx, you can build a business that changes lives — including your own.
In fact, some of the best Kixx franchisees come from the world of sport and education.
As a result, they already have the skills to inspire and lead within their communities.
For example, people like Thomas Beech — a PE teacher and Kixx Harrogate franchise owner — wanted to make a bigger impact in his community.
As a result, Thomas continues to teach, a role he loves. Kixx complements his passion for child development by allowing him to inspire children beyond the classroom.
“I loved teaching, but I also wanted the freedom to run my own thing — to create something that inspired even more children beyond school hours. Kixx gave me the structure, the support, and the confidence to make it happen.”
— Thomas Beech, Kixx Harrogate
Thomas isn’t alone. Across the UK, teachers and coaches like Harry Warwick and Lewis Collins from Grimsby have built thriving Kixx academies — creating opportunities for hundreds of children every week while achieving genuine work-life balance.
They’re proof that courage, backed by the right model, can change everything.
Kixx isn’t just another children’s football provider. We’re a movement built on purpose — helping every child grow in confidence, character, and ability, both on and off the pitch. It’s a mission recognised by Sport England, which celebrates the power of sport to transform communities.
As a Kixx franchisee, you’ll be part of something bigger — a trusted UK-wide network passionate about developing both the child and the footballer. Every session is designed to unlock potential, nurture skills, and inspire a lifelong love of the game.
The Benefits of Joining the Kixx Franchise 2026
We’ve spent years refining a model that gives passionate people like you the freedom to grow. It helps you develop both professionally and personally.
“Kixx gave me the platform to stay in football and do what I love — coaching. It’s been brilliant seeing how much the kids enjoy it and how much the business has grown.”
— Lewis Collins, Kixx Grimsby
Many Kixx franchisees start where you are now — teaching in schools, running local coaching sessions, or managing grassroots teams. You already have the passion and skills; Kixx gives you the framework and brand credibility to take it to the next level.
With Kixx, you’re not starting from scratch. You’re following a model that’s been proven to work across the UK. Our team genuinely cares about your success.
Whether you want to start small and build gradually, or scale quickly across multiple academies, Kixx gives you the tools, training, and backing to succeed from day one.
When you join Kixx, you’re not figuring it out alone — you’re stepping into a system that’s been tested, refined, and proven to work across the UK.
Here’s what that looks like in real terms to become a Kixx Franchise in 2026:
And the support doesn’t stop once you launch. From hands-on mentoring to continuous business reviews and regular franchise development days, you’ll have a team behind you every step of the way — helping you stay motivated, accountable, and ready for the next milestone.
Kixx isn’t just a franchise; it’s a family. Our mission is clear: to positively impact 100,000 children every week. Every new franchisee brings us closer to that goal.
But beyond numbers, it’s about making an impact on every child — and at every opportunity.
Our Kixx Values drive everything we do:
If those words resonate with you, you’ll feel right at home in the Kixx family.
No more Sunday night dread. No more wondering what could have been.
2026 can be the year you take control — turning your love of sport and teaching into a business that inspires, empowers, and grows with you.
The question isn’t “Can I do this?” — it’s “When will I start?”
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to do something that truly matters — this is it. The first step is simple: complete our Kixx franchise survey to discover your potential fit and explore what your journey could look like.
Discover what’s possible with a Kixx franchise in 2026. Build a life you love and make a difference that lasts.
When you picture toddler football, you might imagine tiny legs chasing a rolling ball, giggles echoing across the room, and proud smiles from parents on the sidelines. And yes — that’s exactly what it looks like!
But behind those adorable moments lies something truly special. Between 18 months and 3 years, your child’s brain and body are developing at an incredible pace. The experiences they have now — especially through play and movement — help shape how they learn, communicate, and grow for years to come.
At Kixx, we believe toddler football is about so much more than kicking a ball. It’s about helping children build confidence, connection, and coordination in a safe, joyful environment.
There’s nothing quite like watching your little one try something new — and that proud moment when they succeed.
In Kixx toddler sessions, children are gently encouraged to explore, move, and celebrate every small win. Whether it’s learning to kick the ball for the first time, listening to a coach, or sharing a high-five, these early moments of success build a powerful sense of I can do it!
And that growing confidence doesn’t stop on the pitch. It helps children feel braver, happier, and more independent in all areas of life — from playtime to nursery adventures.

Every roll, kick, jump, and balance challenge helps toddlers strengthen important muscles and improve their coordination.
The early years are a vital time for developing gross motor skills — the big body movements that allow children to run, climb, and move with control. Toddler football makes these movements fun and natural through creative games, music, and imaginative play.
It’s movement with meaning — helping little bodies grow stronger, steadier, and more confident every week. According to NHS Start for Life, regular play and physical activity are key to both brain and body development during the toddler years.

Football for toddlers is one of the best ways to gently introduce teamwork and social interaction.
During Kixx sessions, children learn to take turns, cheer for others, and share space — all while having fun and feeling supported. These social skills lay the groundwork for positive relationships and a healthy sense of belonging.
You’ll often see the first friendships forming on the Kixx pitch — and that’s a beautiful thing to watch.

One of the loveliest parts of Kixx toddler football is that parents and carers are part of the fun.
Your presence on the pitch — laughing, encouraging, and celebrating — means the world to your child. It builds trust, connection, and lasting memories.
Many parents tell us their weekly session becomes a special time they both look forward to — a break from busy routines where they can just be together.
You can even explore simple activities to try at home through the Kixx Coaching Channel — full of easy, fun football games that build confidence and coordination.
Getting active early helps set healthy habits that can last a lifetime. Football encourages children to move with joy, explore their abilities, and develop a love of sport that often continues into school and beyond.
Regular activity also supports better sleep, emotional wellbeing, and resilience — helping children feel more balanced and content as they grow.
As Sport England highlights, introducing movement and play early is one of the most effective ways to support lifelong wellbeing.
At Kixx, everything we do is about helping children grow — not just as little footballers, but as confident, kind, and happy individuals.
Our toddler football sessions are designed by early years specialists and delivered by passionate coaches who care deeply about every child’s experience. It’s football made for fun, learning, and smiles — all wrapped up in the warmth of our Kixx community.
Give your little one the best start — filled with confidence, connection, and happy memories.
Find your nearest Kixx academy today and experience the magic of toddler football for yourself.
Interested in bringing the Kixx experience to your own community? Learn more about Kixx Franchise Opportunities.
Choosing the right activity for your child can feel like a big decision. You want something active, social, and fun. That’s why many parents choose football classes for children that help build confidence, encourage friendship, and create a real sense of belonging.
At Kixx, we’re proud to make that choice easy. Every week, our team delivers fun and positive experiences for families across the UK. As a result, our football programmes for early years and beyond help every child grow both on and off the pitch.
Many parents tell us that Kixx has transformed their child’s confidence. Because of this, Kixx has become one of the most trusted kids football classes — supporting both shy youngsters and those already bursting with energy and self-belief.

Amina & Aaliyah, Kixx Birmingham (Age 2)
“Aaliyah had just turned 2 when she joined Kixx. I wasn’t sure what to expect at that age, but I’ve been amazed. She’s already learning to take turns, follow simple instructions, and move with confidence. It’s given her the best possible start—and we both love our Saturday mornings together.”
Ben & Noah, Kixx Derby (Age 3)
“When my son first joined Kixx, he was so shy he wouldn’t even step onto the pitch. The coaches were patient and encouraging, and within a few weeks he was running out with a smile on his face. It’s been incredible to watch his confidence grow, both in these weekly activities and in his life outside Kixx.”
Stories like Noah’s remind us why families describe Kixx as one of the most welcoming football classes for shy children, where patient coaching helps even the most reserved little ones find their feet.
Emma & Arlo, Kixx Doncaster (Age 4)
“Arlo started Kixx when he was 2, and it’s honestly been one of the best decisions we’ve made. He was quite shy at first, but the coaches were amazing at helping him settle. Now he runs in with a big smile every week. It’s the highlight of our week—and his.”

Malek & Zara, Kixx Leicester (Age 5)
“When Zara started school, we wanted something active and positive to balance out the week. Kixx has been brilliant. It helps her stay active, burn off energy, and have fun every session. She’s also made some lovely new friends. For us, Kixx is more than football — it’s confidence, friendship, and fun.”
Claire & Jacob, Kixx York (Age 7)
“Jacob joined Kixx a few years ago, and since then we’ve watched him grow so much — not just in football ability but as a person. He’s more confident, he communicates better, and he’s becoming a brilliant teammate. The coaches play a huge part in that.”
Steve & Daniel, Kixx Sheffield (Age 10)
“Daniel joined Kixx at 9 because we wanted to give him time to develop before starting secondary school. Football’s always been something he’s enjoyed, but what we’ve seen is a real boost in his confidence, communication, and social skills. Knowing he’ll have football as an option at playtimes—and that he feels confident getting involved—has been a big reassurance for us as parents.”
As children grow, parents tell us they see a lasting impact—stronger teamwork, greater resilience, and growing confidence through football, both on and off the pitch.

Real voices. Real experiences. These stories show that the impact of Kixx goes well beyond football—it’s about helping children thrive in every way.
Our sessions are tailored for children aged 2 to 10, supporting their development at every stage. Whether your child is just starting out or growing into a leader on the pitch, Kixx is a place where they can shine.
Parents tell us their children look forward to every session. They can see the difference that well-structured football classes for children make — not only in skill and coordination but also in confidence and communication.
Our September blocks are now open, and it’s the perfect time to get started.
Whether your child is new to football or already loves the game, Kixx offers fun, active sessions that help children grow in confidence and skill every week. In addition, our structured programmes support early years development and create positive, lasting experiences for families across the UK.
As a result, now is an ideal moment to join the Kixx family. Find your nearest academy and register today at www.kixx.org.uk.
If you have any questions, our friendly team is here to help. Call us on 01302 618080 or email admin@kixx.org.uk — we’d love to hear from you.
At Kixx, we believe football is more than just a game — it’s a way to help young children build confidence, develop new skills, and have fun while staying active.
That’s why our Kixx Education team delivers football in nurseries and preschools across the country. We bring engaging, age-appropriate sessions straight into your setting. Each session is designed to inspire a love of movement, teamwork, and play from the very start of a child’s learning journey.
Our sessions are designed especially for early years, supporting the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) while giving children a chance to enjoy being active.
We know how busy early years settings can be. That’s why our approach to football in nurseries and preschools is designed to add real value to your provision — without adding to staff workload.

Every Kixx coach is qualified and trained in our unique ORANGE coaching philosophy. Each one also holds an Enhanced DBS check. We deliver with passion, energy, and care — giving children positive role models they can look up to.
We complete full first aid and safeguarding training, giving nurseries, preschools, and families peace of mind that children are always safe.
One of our partner nurseries recently told us:
“The Kixx approach is brilliant for us. It gives our children a fresh, exciting experience every week and we see them developing in confidence and physical ability. As staff, it gives us a chance to observe those important little milestones, and we love seeing how engaged the children are. The fact it doesn’t add to our workload is a huge bonus too.”
— Practitioner, Building Blocks Nursery
Kixx Education is about more than football. It’s about giving young children the very best start in life — supporting their physical, emotional, and social development while making every session fun.
We’d love to show you the impact Kixx can have in your nursery or preschool.
Request a Discovery Call today and explore how Kixx can support your setting.