The focus for the fortnight is: Be Independent – We take turns and play by the rules.

This fortnight we're focusing on the art of taking turns and playing by the rules – otherwise known as fair play. These may seem like simple concepts, but they're crucial building blocks for social interaction and emotional development. By learning to take turns and following rules during playtime, children develop patience, empathy, and respect for others. These skills form the foundation for healthy relationships and successful teamwork in the future.

Playing fair is about learning and using the rules of the game and putting them into practice – whether they’re special family rules for card or board games, or the rules at Saturday sport. Fair play is also about learning social rules, like cooperating, taking turns, being polite, solving problems and being flexible. Playing fair helps children enjoy the experience of playing together. It’s also an important part of getting along with others. And when children get along well with others, it gives them a sense of belonging and helps them grow and thrive.

You can use the following tips to help children of any age learn about fair play and enjoying the game.

• Consider the age of your child: children can learn about fair play more easily when the game is suitable for their age. For example, children younger than 6-7 years find it hard to understand formal rules. Simple games that give each child a turn can work well for younger children – for example, ‘snakes and ladders’. Short waiting times can help too.
• Give your child the chance to play a variety of games: the more experience and practice the better. Try board and ball games, competitive games of skill like chess, competitive games of chance, and cooperative games like charades. Even make-believe games can help children practise taking turns.
• Find a range of playmates: it’s good for your child to play with children who are older or younger. For example, your child can look after younger children and show them the rules. Older children can also be good role models for younger children.
• Go over the rules of the game: before the game starts, make sure everyone knows what the rules are and how they make the game fair. You might also need to gently remind children of the rules as you play.
• Introduce some social rules: these could be rules about taking turns and congratulating other people when they win.
• Encourage children to have a say in the rules: if you’re playing a game with flexible or made-up rules, ask children what the rules should be. For example, ‘If the ball goes out of bounds, what do you think should happen?’ Children who feel they’ve had a say in the rules are more likely to follow them.
• Give feedback: praise your child for sharing, taking turns and other examples of playing fair. Point out what your child did well. For example, ‘I thought it was great the way you shook hands with the other team at the end of the game’.

At Craigslea SS: We choose a fair way to take turns. We negotiate the rules for the game. We make sure everyone agrees. We stick to the order and/or rules once decided. We wait patiently for our turn.