Socatots debuts in the Middle East

SOCATOTS not only teaches toddlers and pre-toddlers basic ball skills and exercises, but also language, numeracy and colour identification. The program incorporates parents into the specialized activities allowing them to play a role in this important learning process.

"Physical activity is vital to a child's development - improving concentration, coordination and communication.

SOCATOTS also enables parents to become involved with their children as part of the programme, enhancing the bond between child and parent in a fun environment," said Ekta Hutton, Assistant Academies Manager, Dubai Sports City.

This year marks the fifth edition of the Mother, Baby and Child Show which takes place from 18 to 20 December at the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre.

"With over one million births a year in the GCC and 26 percent of the population under ten years of age, the Mother, Baby and Child Show is expanding rapidly. The show is the ideal platform to promote the benefits of the SOCATOTS concept and the benefits it brings to the well-being of the family."

Hutton added.

Socatots is a physical play programme - developed by English football coach Simon Clifford - and is aimed at children between the ages of six months and five.

The concept behind SOCATOTS is that no child is too young to learn. The programme involves three phases of learning for youngsters: six months to 18 months; 18 months to three years; and three to four years.

Research has shown that children who are physically active from a young age are more likely to have better concentration skills in the classroom, and this is the philosophy that underpins the SOCATOTS programme.

SOCATOTS started in England and is now available in many different countries around the world, including Holland, Singapore, and Canada.

The programme has received huge acclaim, to include having been voted the Best Football Activity at the What's On 4 Little Ones Awards (UK) 2008.