The Unbelievable Football: The Most Amazing World Cup Stories You Never Knew dressing-up ideas support the 2026 World Book Day £1/€1.50 book and give children a simple, low-cost way to create their own personalised football kit. Using card, colouring pens, and a safety pin or tape, children design a unique team emblem based on their strengths and favourite hobbies, helping them celebrate the story at home, in school, or in a community setting.
Why it works
These dressing-up ideas encourage creativity, confidence, and imaginative play. By designing their own emblem and team name, children explore what makes them unique while engaging with the football theme in an active, hands-on way. The low-cost materials make the activity accessible for everyone, supporting inclusive participation in World Book Day celebrations.
How to use it
First, start by drawing a circular emblem on card. Children can divide the shape into sections and add drawings that represent their skills, interests, and hobbies. Next, colour and decorate the design and add a team name. Once the emblem is finished, stick it onto card for strength, cut it out, and attach a safety pin, velcro, or tape to the back. Finally, children can then pin it to their t-shirt and create their own football team.
Get started
Download the Unbelievable Football dressing-up ideas sheet and grab some card, pens, and a safety pin. Children do not need a printer and can use any paper or card they already have at home. Encourage children to wear their emblem while reading the book or taking part in World Book Day celebrations with friends and family.
Related resources
Use of World Book Day resources
These resources are free to use for schools, early years settings, libraries, charities, and community groups celebrating World Book Day. Commercial organisations must have a partnership or licence agreement in place before using World Book Day assets. If you are interested in working with us, please contact partnerships@worldbookday.com.