Why I Love Playing Soccer With My Students

It may be "just a game" but these are the ebbs and flows that define life when you're ten, and they should matter.

I absolutely love playing soccer with my students.

Here are a few of my thoughts on why:

1. My skill level is just about right to compete fairly against 10 year olds. I always play my best and I never go easy on anyone, and it's genuinely fun and challenging for all of us.

2. It's great exercise! Today I was winded multiple times which has to mean it was an amazing cardio workout, right??

3. I get to be in their world. 4th and 5th graders are at this completely charming phase where they are still pretty thrilled to play with adults. My kids welcome me in the game. I get to share all the tiny elations, suspenses, and frustrations played out in the space of an impromptu soccer game. Working together and living these mini-experiences alongside a teammate, it forges a bond. It builds trust. We're like Frodos and Sams out there. Reys and Finns, KC Undercover and whoever the heck her sidekick is. It helps me connect with them. 

4. I can model sportsmanship and teamwork in a completely authentic setting. So cheesy but so true! When things were clearly getting too heated and competitive between a few of my kiddos, I was able to say "This is no fun to play when we bicker!" We sat in the dirt and solved a problem that minutes ago had a boy red faced and storming off the field. Correction: We sat in the dirt and I moderated the discussion. THEY solved the problem and all I had to do was make them take turns talking! YOU GUYS! Seriously. [Heart Eye Emoji Here] 

5. It shows them that I care. My presence is like a social scaffold* for kids who need a little extra help engaging positively with friends. It also makes more timid, conflict-averse children feel safe to join in. Taking the time to say "yes" when a child asks "Want to play soccer with us?", giving it your all while you play, yelling "good job" "nice try!" and "that was awesome!" at the right moments, and when the time inevitably comes, sitting down in a circle in the dirt to work things out... I like to think that's something kids are going to notice. It certainly cultivates joy in your own heart!



*something that helps kids at all levels access an idea or concept, for you non-education folk.