Help kids practice social skills throughout the day, not just in class.

Matt Harris, a principal at a Playworks school, sees recess and playtime as important social learning opportunities. “By tackling empathy at recess, we aren’t just hoping that kids will practice it. We know they do because we see the difference,” he says. “Kids are playing more inclusive games, listening to each other, and solving conflicts quickly, so the group as a whole can get back to playing.”

CASEL identifies social awareness and relationship skills as two core competencies for social learning. When students are socially aware, they practice skills like inclusion, respect, compassion, and empathy. Relationship skills include conflict resolution, cooperation, playing fair, and playing with students from different friend groups or ages. Here are six ways you can help kids practice social awareness and relationship skills during recess. 

1

Teach students to play in ways that are inclusive

For example, in a game of four square, set the expectation that whoever is serving will rotate out after three serves so that more students have a chance to play. Find tips on inclusion here.

 

2

Model positive social skills

Join students in a game at recess. Lead by example. Offer high fives, use positive language, and encourage students with a “good job, nice try” when they rotate out. Children will take their social cues from adults.

 

3

Play games that reinforce empathy

Build social awareness through games that encourage students to take the perspective of others, to walk a few steps in someone else’s shoes, or to collaborate as a team. Try​ Fake Out or Hi, My Name Is.

 

4

Teach Rock Paper Scissors for conflict resolution

Playing Rock Paper Scissors teaches students to resolve disagreements in a way that feels fair without adult intervention.

 

5

5. Teach games that encourage cooperation

Three-Lines Basketball teaches the skills used in traditional basketball, but children must cheer on their teammates and work together.
See it in action.

 

6

Agree on the rules

Elementary-aged children are learning to follow social norms and appreciate clear expectations. Display rules for popular recess games. Set the expectation that all students can join games like four square and jump rope to encourage students to interact with peers outside of their friend groups.


Find 156 fun games in our Life Skills Game Guide.

Includes everything from games you can play in a small space with no materials, to games you can play in a big group during recess. Search for games by age level, time/space/materials available, and by the life skills used (like problem solving or teamwork).

Download GameS

 

 

 

 


Want more help building social skills at recess? Our professional development workshops help teachers and recess staff use games, attention getters, and other hands-on tools to help kids build social skills through play.

 

More Resources


woman and child smiling
woman and child smiling

August 17, 2022

How Adults Best Create Supportive Play Communities ›

With over 25 years of experience working with kids in schools, our staff and coaches have learned many things about how to set up the most positive, inviting, engaging play experiences. The lessons they’ve learned can be applied on the playground, in the virtual classroom, and at home. When you are setting up play environments…

students in circle playing game with ball
students in circle playing game with ball

August 17, 2022

Helping kids to find new friends and feel included ›

Play is a natural, safe way that kids can interact with people who are different and rejoice by achieving shared goals. Interacting with people who are different at a young age is good for kids. To make sure that kids have the opportunity to play with peers outside of their normal groups, adults or youth…

two girls playing rock paper scissors
two girls playing rock paper scissors

August 17, 2022

Empowering Kids to Create Their Own Happiness ›

By Playworks and UNICEF Kid Power® When kids’ minds and bodies get active, either while playing or participating in service learning, they experience physical and mental benefits (and support positive academic behaviors). One of the most important social-emotional outcomes is experiencing joy. Educators and families have risen to the challenge of ensuring kids get social-emotional…