Playing To Prepare The Ground in Primary Schools

Game playing is the best and quickest way we know to break down barriers of unfamiliarity. Kids understand this is the currency of fun and that there aren't any set expectations.

 

There shouldn't really be any time limit on this and in our experience the amount of fun they have at the outset of the project is in direct proportion to ones own enjoyment of the sessions and the success in terms of outcomes. Return to games throughout the project and encourage them to use the patterns of games in their 'work'.

 

For instance, if you play Elves, Wizards and Witches with a group of 4-5 year olds, you could return to that theme in an animation project or you could adapt the game to fit the needs of a nature project (caterpillars, stag beetles and leather jackets anyone?).

Similarly role-play games (where kids work in groups to put themselves in somebody else's shoes) are a really great way to develop ideas with older kids. You might also find further inspiration in the way they play your games or maybe they can teach you some of their own playground games!

 

The reason we think games are important is that games=play and play is the most natural expression of a child's creativity. The nearer we can get to making the project like play, the happier we are.

 

Once the kids know that the session is going to contain great games they relax and become more playful and then the ideas begin to come.

 

Interestingly it is at this stage that a new dynamic can be created and other adults present might notice a change in kids they've known for a while.

Recently while doing a Media Club for 7-11 year olds, a kid who was obviously considered a bit geeky by his classmates (he wore glasses so he deserved it), became a bit of a hero by suggesting that we all continue the session outside in the play area.

We did and he was right, it was a lot cooler, in both senses. This approach relies on flexibility and a lot of faith. If you are going to allow the kids to lead the adventure you have to be prepared for some questioning behaviour and a bit of chaos.

We love this because every group is different and the lessons you learn are the thing that keeps you going. Be prepared for your plans to need revising and you'll be fine.

 

(Extract from article for Creative Partnerships by CTS)