Play is a natural, safe way that kids can interact with other people and rejoice by achieving shared goals. To make sure that kids have the opportunity to play with peers outside of their normal groups, adults or youth leaders can take an active role in creating groups for activities or ensuring kids feel safe enough to choose to participate in activities with others.
School environments where kids feel like they belong are essential to help every child feel safe so that they can learn and grow. At Playworks, we believe in the power of play to create environments where all children can thrive. When kids play, they engage with their peers in meaningful ways that build their sense of community as well as their own social capital.
Try using Playworks games to encourage students to play with peers they wouldn’t normally know or engage with at school by mixing up groups for the game itself or for school projects. Or try using a favorite Playworks game that intentionally encourages students to include everyone and work together.
Games to help kids connect: