With the World Cup kicking off this week, there’s no better time to get children excited about being active. As football fever sweeps across the globe, families can use the tournament as inspiration to get moving together; whether that’s a kick-about in the garden, practising skills at the park, creating mini matches with friends, or simply enjoying active play outdoors.

At Let’s Go with the Children, we know that movement doesn’t have to mean joining a team or following a training plan. It’s about having fun, building confidence and creating happy family memories. The World Cup provides the perfect opportunity to turn everyday moments into active adventures, helping children stay healthy, develop new skills and discover the joy of movement.

From football-themed challenges and family tournaments to active days out and sports-inspired attractions, there are plenty of ways to make this summer one to remember.

Health guidance recommends that children aim for around 60 minutes of physical activity each day, yet many parents underestimate how much movement children need outside of school hours. The good news is that staying active doesn’t have to involve organised sport or lengthy exercise sessions.

Even short bursts of movement throughout the day can support children’s physical health, wellbeing and concentration. The World Cup provides the perfect opportunity to build more activity into everyday family life, turning football fever into fun, active moments that get everyone moving. Whether it’s recreating famous goals, setting up family challenges or heading to the local park for a kickabout, there are plenty of simple ways to stay active while enjoying the excitement of the tournament.

Some ideas of how you can celebrate the World Cup at home, while keeping active!

Bring the excitement of the World Cup home by organising a mini tournament in your garden, local park or green space. Family members can represent different countries, design team names and even create their own fixtures and league table. It’s a fun way to encourage teamwork, friendly competition and plenty of movement.

Learn skills from around the world. Many of the world’s best footballers have their own signature moves and playing styles. Challenge children to learn a new skill each week, from dribbling drills and passing challenges to ball control exercises inspired by their favourite players. Practising skills helps build confidence, coordination and perseverance while keeping children active.

Walk to watch. If you’re heading out to watch a match with friends or family, consider making the journey part of the activity. Walking or cycling to a local screening, community event or a friend’s house adds extra movement to the day and can become part of the occasion. Along the way, children can spot flags, predict match results or discuss which teams they’re supporting, turning a simple journey into a football-themed adventure.

Celebrate every goal with a family dance challenge. Watching football doesn’t have to mean sitting still. Before the match starts, agree on a special celebration for every goal scored. It could be a dance routine, a victory lap around the garden, star jumps, silly poses or a family conga around the living room. These spontaneous bursts of activity keep everyone engaged and add an extra layer of fun to match day.

Explore local football and sports activities. The World Cup often inspires children to try a new sport or develop existing interests. Look out for local football sessions, holiday camps, family sports days or community events taking place throughout the summer. Many clubs offer taster sessions for beginners, making it a great opportunity for children to build new skills, make friends and discover activities they enjoy beyond the tournament itself.