The 2010 FIFA World Cup may not be a major sporting event to a lot of Americans, but for the rest of the planet, World Cup time means that work, play and school will pretty much grind to a halt for the next 30 days. Soccer neophytes will wonder, what’s the big deal? Why all the fuss over a few games of soccer?
The big deal is that for one month every four years, the whole world sets aside its differences to cheer on their favorite national soccer teams. Part of the magic of the World Cup is that it shares the basic qualities of an Olympic games; the rivalries, the heartbreaking losses, the improbable wins, the controversial calls and the sometimes theatrical athletes. It’s a mosaic of human emotion, culture and passion. The point is, it’s a really big global celebration, and you can bring the party right to your living room.
We’re not suggesting that you stop your family’s life to follow each World Cup match (though we strongly encourage face painting and flag waving!), but taking the time to show your kids the way a whole world can unite over something as simple as soccer can have a lot of benefits.
Aside from enjoying the opening ceremonies and the inspirational World Cup songs, there is even more fun and learning to be had. Here are just a few ways parents can make watching the World Cup into a fun learning opportunity that kids won’t forget.
Teamwork & Sportsmanship
Teaching kids teamwork is easy when you’re watching a game that depends on passing between players and anticipating when your teammate will need you. Point out plays in the game where a bad play could have been fixed with a pass to a teammate. Explain why a player is sent off for an illegal tackle, and make sure you tell the truth about some of the theatrics players stoop to — tell your child that those moments aren’t part of the goodness of the game, and explain that the players who do it aren’t playing fair. Make sure to point out when members of opposite teams help eachother up and show the true spirit of sportsmanship.
Competition & Hard Work
Obviously, these players are true athletes. They have worked hard, practiced and dedicated their lives to reach that level of sport! Explain to your kids in the context of a win, what it takes to succeed in most things. Hard work, dedication and practice — all excellent lessons that apply easily to school, sports and interests your child may have.
Culture & Diversity
The month-long tournament is made up of 32 national teams who qualified for the competition based on their success in the qualifying matches that took place around the world throughout 2009. That’s 32 other countries to learn about — from language to food, to music and dancing, this is an opportunity to open up a whole new world to your child. Ask them to pick the flag they think is the coolest, then do a little research on the country’s traditions to get the ball rolling.
How to Win and Lose Gracefully
The best lesson to teach from a losing situation is that good old classic; If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again! When a team you’re rooting for loses, it’s a good opportunity to let your kids know that you can’t win every time. Stress to them that it is okay to lose a game as long as you tried your best, and sometimes a team, game or player can be unlucky or have a bad day. On the flip side, celebrate a win with your kids with dancing and high-fives, but make sure to discourage any gloating or told-you-so-ing with a gentle reminder that it’s not okay to make someone feel bad about losing.
So why should you and your kids tune in to the 2010 World Cup? So you can teach them about different parts of the world, expose them to a healthy sport they may want to try, and show them that the world can come together over something as simple as a black and white ball.
