Positions II: What Do We Do: What Do We Do? (Iplaysoccer)
#2 in iPlaySoccer Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
It's a cross-town rivalry game against the talented and tough Dynamo, but Alex and his team are confident because they know what each player should be doing on the field. This fully illustrated book is intended to help youth soccer players understand playing positions and the basics of 7 vs. 7 formations. iPlaySoccer! Books are instructional stories focused on advancing youth player development. The illustrated children's books teach foundational concepts and vocabulary in a fun way that allows children, parents, and coaches to develop together in 'the beautiful game.' The series is not intended to replace the instruction of a coach or the learning derived from actual play. Rather, the purpose of these books is to assist the player in mastering concepts as the game becomes more complex. Besides, the focus of iPlaySoccer! is on teaching children how to think independently, while also maintaining a collective understanding of the team during competition. Each title is not intended to supplant the instruction of a coach, or the time a child spends learning a sport by playing it. Rather, the authors' purpose is to assist young players with their comprehension of sport in a way that is engaging, inspiring, and empowering.
Discussion points
What role does each player have on the soccer team, and why do you think each role is important?
If you could choose any position to play, which one would you pick and why?
How do you think the team players work together during a game?
What are some qualities that make someone a good team player?
How do you feel when you work together with friends on a project or in a game?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use real-life examples of teamwork to make the concepts relatable. Discuss times when the family had to work together to achieve a common goal.
Encourage your child to talk about their favorite sports and the roles different players have, linking it back to the book.
Ask your child to imagine they are the coach of their favorite sport. What advice would they give the players about teamwork?
Praise your child for insightful comments or interesting questions about the book, fostering a positive discussion environment.
End your reading session by planning a small family activity where everyone has a role, bringing the book’s themes to life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The book showcases children playing soccer, emphasizing the importance of working together to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperation and can apply these skills in group projects at school or in community activities.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The characters in the book take turns playing different positions on the field, teaching readers that everyone has a role that contributes to the team's success.
Real-World Application: Kids understand that their actions affect others and learn to take responsibility for their duties, whether at home or school.
Example Lesson: Following Rules
Explanation: Through soccer, the book introduces the concept of playing by the rules, which is essential to ensure fair play and safety on the field.
Real-World Application: This instills a sense of discipline and respect for rules that is applicable in various aspects of life, including following classroom guidelines.
Example Lesson: Healthy Competition
Explanation: The narrative promotes competing in a healthy, positive way, where the focus is on doing your best rather than merely winning.
Real-World Application: Children learn to strive for personal excellence and fair competition in sports, academics, and other areas of life.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Characters in the story face challenges during the game but learn to persist and try again, showcasing the value of resilience.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to handle setbacks and keep trying, whether in learning new skills or dealing with everyday problems.