Kickers #4: Game-Day Jitters
#4 of 4 in Kickers Series
What’s inside...
Filled with on-the-field soccer scenes, black-and-white artwork, and sports statistics throughout, this short novel follows nine-year-old Ben and his fourth-grade team, the Bobcats, as they race to the Kickers League playoffs. Ben is one of the team's strongest players, but he's been struggling with the jitters, freezing up on the field. As the team really needs him, the big question is whether he can overcome his nerves and pull through for his teammates.
Discussion points
How did the characters handle their nervousness before the big game? Can you relate to their feelings?
What strategies did the team use to work together and support each other? Why do you think teamwork is important?
How do you think the game changed the characters? Did they learn any lessons about friendship or courage?
What would you have done differently if you were in the characters' shoes during the game?
Which character did you admire the most and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, focusing on the characters' experiences with teamwork and handling nerves.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and ask your child about times when they have had to work with others to achieve a goal.
Link the story's themes to your child's personal experiences, such as times they have felt nervous and how they managed those feelings.
Praise your child for thoughtful responses and insights, reinforcing their analytical thinking and empathy.
Use examples from the book to teach resilience and the value of preparation before facing challenging situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming Nervousness
Explanation: The book captures how the protagonist manages game-day jitters during an important soccer match.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by using positive self-talk and preparation strategies to handle their own anxieties during school presentations or sports events.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The characters in the story learn to work together, understanding each other's strengths and weaknesses, to win the game.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of collaborating with peers during group projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Failure
Explanation: The protagonist and the team face setbacks during the game, which teaches them how to handle failures gracefully.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that setbacks are natural and can be used as stepping stones to come back stronger in academics or other activities.
Example Lesson: Importance of Practice
Explanation: The book illustrates how continuous practice leads to improvement in the characters' soccer skills.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to consistently practice their own skills, be it in arts, academics, or sports, understanding that mastery comes with persistence.
Example Lesson: Sportsmanship
Explanation: Throughout the game, players show respect towards their opponents and referees, exemplifying good sportsmanship.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the value of respecting others, whether they win or lose, in any competitive or cooperative setting.