Kim Kardashian is stepping into her soccer mom era, but this is just the beginning. While most children might only dream of seeing their local team play, Saint, Kim’s soccer-enthused 8-year-old, has already traveled across the globe to witness some of the biggest teams in action. He even had the opportunity to be a mascot for Real Madrid in Spain last weekend.
At 43, Kardashian reveals that both Saint and his brother Psalm, 5, are avid soccer fans, both playing and watching the sport. This means many more years of cheering from the sidelines are ahead for her. While it might sound fun, there are also less glamorous moments—like trying to manage thermal leggings in a chilly PortaPotty at a remote soccer field during a January blizzard.
Being a soccer mom can be a steep learning curve. So, we at Us have put together a few tips to help self-proclaimed “lunatic soccer mom” Kim Kardashian ease into her new role:
Soccer Mom Tip 1: Don’t Make Big Weekend Plans
Once your kids are into soccer, weekends are pretty much booked. Late Friday nights out may lead to regret when you’re woken up at 7:02 a.m. on Saturday by Saint searching for his favorite Messi shirt. Missing games is highly discouraged if your child makes the team, as it’s frowned upon by fellow soccer moms. Plus, you don’t want to risk your “Saint has a stomach bug” excuse unraveling when paparazzi photos show you at an awards ceremony instead.
Soccer isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle. It demands full commitment. As your kid’s talent grows, so will your dedication, which might mean early morning trips across state lines for games.
Soccer Mom Tip 2: Bring (and Share!) All the Snacks
It’s easy to underestimate the number of snacks needed for a soccer game. By halftime, the cookies and bananas you packed are likely already gone, and your kids are asking for more. Playing soccer and cheering from the sidelines can make anyone hungry.
To avoid running out, pack more snacks than you think you’ll need. Bringing extra treats for teammates is a great way to win over your child’s new friends and their parents. Imagine showing up with a tray of donuts, juice cartons in various flavors, and enough fruit for a small army—especially when everyone knows you could probably buy a small country if you wanted to.
Don’t forget your own snacks, too. Some soccer venues might not have great refreshment options, so it’s best to bring a flask of your favorite hot drink and a few secret snacks to stay warm and happy.
Soccer Mom Tip 3: Dirt-Proof Your Car and Life
Soccer can get messy—literally. If your kid plays on artificial turf, tiny pieces of it will end up everywhere, but those are easy to vacuum. However, playing on real grass means mud will be everywhere—in your car, your house, and on everything your child touches. It’s like having the world’s messiest pet.
Experienced soccer moms suggest always having a bag ready for muddy boots right after the game. Also, bring a onesie for your child to zip over their muddy clothes, clean socks, and a change of shoes. Lining your car with towels or plastic sheets is a great idea, too. Alternatively, arrange for someone else to drive them home to keep your car clean.
Encouraging your child to clean their own muddy boots is a great way to foster independence (and save yourself the hassle). And if the shoes get smelly, putting tea bags inside them overnight can help absorb the odor!
Soccer Mom Tip 4: Be a Team Player
As your child grows older and soccer gets more serious, there will be expectations for parents to get involved—washing and organizing the team’s kit, transporting equipment, setting up and dismantling gear, and participating in fundraisers and other events.
Whether you’re Kim Kardashian or an everyday working parent, being involved is part of being a soccer mom. Even if you have the means to outsource these tasks, try to stay engaged in some way. Your kids will appreciate having an involved parent, too!
Soccer Mom Tip 5: Layer Up
Soccer games happen regardless of weather conditions, and your child will expect you to be there, cheering them on, rain or shine.
The key to surviving these games is layering up. You’ll need a large, cozy coat with plenty of pockets—for snacks and for keeping your hands warm. In winter, thermal leggings under jeans, warm socks, and sheepskin boot liners are essential. Some savvy soccer parents even bring cardboard to stand on when the ground is particularly cold.
Gloves are a must, especially if you want to use your phone to capture your kid’s goals or scroll through Instagram when things get slow (no judgment!). Opt for touch-screen-friendly gloves to make it easier.
Don’t forget sunglasses, too. Even on cold winter days, the sun can be bright, and if you didn’t follow the first tip about avoiding big nights out before a game, you might have other reasons to wear them—especially if you’re one of the most famous people in the world and want to avoid unflattering photos surfacing online.
Soccer Mom Tip 6: Learn the Rules
Soccer seems simple—just kick the ball into the net, right? Well, there’s more to it. Understanding rules like the offside rule can help you avoid embarrassing moments, such as protesting a disallowed goal. Plus, knowing the rules makes watching the game more interesting and helps you engage with your child when they want to discuss every detail on the drive home.
Follow these tips, and who knows? You might just have a future Beckham, Messi, or Ronaldo in your family!