Play & Connect: Building Friendships

Chandler Creedon

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Play & Connect: Building Friendships

Teach students interact with peers

This lesson plan is designed to help kindergarten students develop social skills and learn how to interact positively with their peers. Through a series of 12 weekly sessions, students will engage in games and activities that promote teamwork, communication, and empathy. This lesson is important as it lays the foundation for healthy social interactions and emotional well-being, which are crucial for their overall development and success in school.

Audience

Small group kindergarten

Time

12 weekly 30 minute sessions

Approach

Game-Based Learning, Restorative Practices, Blended Learning

Materials

Discussion Questions, Interaction Worksheet, Game Materials (e.g., balls, blocks, etc.), and Storybooks about Friendship

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Gather students in a circle.
Briefly explain the day's activity and its purpose (e.g., "Today, we're going to play a game that helps us learn how to work together and be good friends.").
Set the tone for a positive and inclusive environment.

Step 2

Game-Based Activity

15 mins

Choose a simple cooperative game (e.g., "Pass the Ball," "Building Together with Blocks").
Explain the rules clearly and demonstrate if necessary.
Encourage students to communicate and help each other during the game.
Observe and provide gentle guidance to ensure positive interactions.

Step 3

Discussion

5 mins

Use the prepared discussion questions to reflect on the game.
Encourage students to share their feelings and thoughts about working together.
Highlight examples of good teamwork and kindness observed during the game.

Step 4

Worksheet Activity

5 mins

Distribute the interaction worksheet.
Guide students to complete the worksheet, which may include drawing or circling actions that show good friendship.
Assist students as needed and encourage them to think about how they can apply these actions in real life.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

Gather students back in a circle.
Recap the key points of the lesson (e.g., "Today, we learned how to be good friends by helping each other and working together.").
Encourage students to practice these skills during the week.
End with a positive affirmation or group cheer.

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Discussion

Discussion Questions

A set of questions to guide students in reflecting on their interactions during the game-based activities.

How did you feel when you worked with your friends today?

Encourage students to express their emotions and relate them to the activity.

What was one thing you did to help a friend during the game?

Highlight specific actions that demonstrate teamwork and kindness.

How can we make sure everyone feels included when we play?

Discuss strategies for inclusion and empathy.

Worksheet

Interaction Worksheet

A worksheet designed to reinforce the concepts of teamwork and friendship through simple activities.

Draw a picture of you and a friend playing together.

Think about a game you enjoyed today.

Circle the actions that show good friendship: sharing, yelling, helping, ignoring.

Focus on positive behaviors.