Wow! It’s that time again. One way I have found to integrate playful writing in these early back to school days is to have kids create a game and make up the rules so everyone has fun playing it. This is an easy way for children to understand the need for some classroom rules as well. Everyone wins when the rules are understood and created to ensure everyone is safe, respected, and has fun.
Choose easy to find objects for creative game materials.
What You Need: An assortment of objects such as: plastic spoons, paper cups, cotton balls, ping-pong balls, checkers, jacks, etc.
Play!
1. Children work in groups of three to four. Each group has a collection of the same objects.
2. The group has a set amount of time (15 minutes or so) to create a game using the as many of the objects they would like.
3. The game is practiced and the goal of the games and directions are agreed upon.
Write About It!
1. Next, both the directions and five rules are written down on a poster next to the chosen materials.
2. Groups rotate to each of the games and leave comments about what they liked about the game, as well as any question they have about a direction or rule.
3. Discuss the games at the end and allow groups to edit their directions and rules to make the game even better based on classmates’ comments and questions.
Use this game activity to transfer learning to the importance of clear directions and rules that everyone understands to create a fun and productive learning environment.
Kids Write! 