Football Poem For Kids: Substitute Me. There's a substitute in us all

When I wrote Substitute Me, I wanted to create a football poem for kids that explored more than just the sport itself. Football has always struck me as the perfect metaphor for life — full of missed chances, close calls, and moments where we need to find the courage to keep going. Through the rhythm and imagery of the game, this football poem for kids became a way to explore feelings of failure, resilience, and self-belief.

The Essence of Football and Life

In the classroom, I hope teachers use Substitute Me to spark conversations about perseverance and identity. It’s essential to discuss how we cope when things go wrong and how we find our “substitute self” waiting on the sidelines to help us bounce back. Children could discuss the emotions behind lines such as “my pride is slide-tackled” or “my dreams are red carded.” They can then share their own stories of feeling “subbed off” by life and fighting their way back into the match.

Writing Activities Inspired by Football

For writing activities, pupils can create their own football poems for kids or poems based on their passions. Perhaps they can turn dance, gaming, or art into metaphors for resilience. This creative process not only enhances their writing skills but also encourages them to express their emotions.

Drama Activities to Engage Students

Drama activities could include acting out the emotional “match” of the poem or performing a monologue from the viewpoint of their own “substitute me.” This interactive approach allows students to embody the feelings expressed in the poem, making the experience more impactful.

Integrating PSHE Lessons

The poem also fits beautifully with PSHE lessons about mental health, self-reflection, and the importance of getting back up when life knocks us down. Discussing these themes can help children understand that setbacks are a part of life. They can learn to embrace their emotions and develop resilience.

The Poem: Substitute Me

Substitute Me

when my pride is slide-tackled

and my hope is kicked wide

when my dreams are run-ragged

and my smile’s found offside

when my pride’s badly injured

and my hope hits the bar

when my dreams are red carded

and my smile is sent off

how I wish, on the sidelines

sat that boy I could be

who’s renowned for resilience

who’s the substitute me

Mark Bird

Conclusion

Substitute Me is more than just a poem; it’s a tool for teaching important life lessons. By engaging with this piece, children can learn about resilience, self-belief, and the importance of bouncing back after setbacks.

Watch the video here to see how this poem can inspire young minds.

Additional Resources

For further exploration, consider using the Football Poem For Kids Lesson Ideas and Creative Worksheet. This resource can help guide discussions and activities related to the poem.

Substitute_Me_Creative_Worksheet.docx

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