Start the Day with Play

Introduction

This tutorial aims to guide educators on how to effectively incorporate play into morning meetings, as demonstrated by Polly Bath. By integrating play, teachers can enhance student engagement, improve social-emotional learning (SEL) skills, and create a positive classroom culture.

Step 1: Understand the Benefits of Play in Education

• Enhances Engagement: Play captures students' attention and makes learning enjoyable.
• Fosters Relationships: Activities encourage teamwork and bond students together.
• Develops SEL Skills: Play helps students learn to manage emotions, resolve conflicts, and improve communication.

Step 2: Plan Play Activities for Morning Meetings

• Identify Objectives: Determine what you want to achieve with the play activities (e.g., improve teamwork, build trust).
• Select Appropriate Games: Choose games that align with your objectives. Consider:
  • Icebreakers for new students
  • Cooperative games that require teamwork
  • Simple physical activities to energize students
• Time Management: Keep play sessions short (10-15 minutes) to maintain focus and energy.

Step 3: Create a Welcoming Environment

• Set Up the Space: Arrange seating to encourage interaction. Ensure enough space for movement during activities.
• Establish Ground Rules: Communicate expectations for behavior during play to create a safe and respectful environment.

Step 4: Facilitate the Activities

• Introduce the Game: Clearly explain the rules and objectives of the game.
• Encourage Participation: Actively involve all students and encourage them to take turns leading activities.
• Monitor Engagement: Watch for any signs of disengagement and be prepared to adjust the activity or switch to another game if needed.

Step 5: Reflect and Debrief

• Discuss Experiences: After the play session, ask students about their experiences. Questions to consider:
  • What did they enjoy?
  • How did they feel while playing?
  • What did they learn about working with others?
• Connect to Learning Objectives: Relate the play experience back to classroom goals and SEL skills.

Conclusion

Incorporating play into morning meetings can significantly improve classroom dynamics and student engagement. By understanding the benefits, planning effective activities, and creating a supportive environment, teachers can foster a culture of inclusivity and collaboration in their classrooms. As a next step, consider experimenting with different games and activities to find what resonates best with your students.