Inviting others to play is not just an act of kindness, but also a crucial social skill that every elementary student should acquire early on. Through play, students learn cooperation, communication, and empathy. But how do we teach children the importance and the etiquette of inviting peers to join in on the fun? This is where our Inviting Others to Play Free Interactive Activity steps in to transform learning into an engaging digital experience.

The Importance of Inviting Others to Play

Before diving into the activity, it’s essential to grasp the significance of this gesture:

• Fosters Inclusion: Encouraging an environment where no child feels left out.
• Builds Self-confidence: A child inviting or being invited gets a boost in self-esteem.
• Develops Social Skills: Practicing interpersonal skills like approaching peers and communicating desires.

Introducing: The Interactive Sorting Activity

This digital interactive activity is designed to be both instructive and engaging. It allows students to differentiate between inviting and non-inviting behaviors through a simple sorting mechanism.

Lesson Plan: “Learning to Invite Peers to Play”

Objective: By the end of the lesson, students will differentiate between inviting and non-inviting behaviors and understand the importance of including others.

Duration: 20 minutes

1. Discussion (5 minutes):
   • Begin with a conversation on what it feels like to be left out and the joy of playing with friends.
   • Transition into the significance of inviting others and how it can make someone’s day.
2. Demonstrating the Activity (5 minutes):
   • Project the digital sorting activity on the board and show them how it works.
   • Sort a couple of cards as examples.
3. Interactive Session (5 minutes):
   • Allow students to individually or in pairs take turns sorting the digital cards.
   • Ensure they discuss their choices, fostering communication.
4. Reflection and Sharing (5 minutes):
   • Engage students in a discussion about what they’ve learned. How will they ensure to include others during playtime?

Conclusion: Making Playtime More Inclusive

It’s vital that children understand the simple joy and profound impact they can have by inviting someone to play. Through this digital activity, not only do students learn the difference between inviting and non-inviting behaviors, but they also practice making inclusive choices. So, next recess, expect to see more smiles, more laughter, and more kids playing together.

Sample Video

Students learn best from watching real students their own age model skills. Try out this sample video-modeling lesson below. We offer our entire Social-Emotional Learning platform free for 30 days here!

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Teaching Kindergarten Students to Join Others on the Playground