Introducing an American Game - Kickball

Since Thailand students really enjoy soccer ("football"), I decided it was time to infuse some American culture into my teachings. I had kickballs delivered from the U.S. and I was anxious to teach the sport while also introducing a little English. ("How many outs?" "How many runs?" "You're safe!") My co-teacher and I briefly described the game and then took the students outside. I had to laugh when I discovered "safe" did not translate to "Bplawt pai" which means safe in Thai. The kept yelling "yuu dai" which means "you can stay". I did this 4 times at each of my schools and am now nursing extreme sunburn to my face and arms. January in Thailand can be HOT!!!!!!