Social Skills for Having Fun at Recess

Playground at Watson

Recess should be a time for kids to have fun with their peers, but it can also be challenging, particularly for children who may be shy or have difficulty initiating play with their peers. 

Here are a few social skills tips you can teach your child or student to help them have fun with their peers at recess: 

  • Join in group activities: Ask to join in on a group activity such as basketball, tag, hopscotch, or other games that you can enjoy playing with others.
  • Bring along a toy or game that you enjoy playing with to recess. This could be a ball, jump rope, frisbee, or anything else that is appropriate for outdoor play.
  • Practice inclusivity: if you are playing a game or with a toy that someone else might enjoy, invite others to join in with you! This can help you make new friends and feel good. 
  • Don’t forget to have fun and keep a positive attitude! 

It can be daunting for your child to put themselves out there to their peers. Help them prepare with these social skills tips to make the most of their recess!

The special education resources on this page were authored by Watson Institute’s special education consultant, Andee Morris, M.Ed.

Powerpoint Presentation:

Having Fun at Recess PowerPoint

Having Fun at Recess Facilitator’s Guide

Resource Materials:

Having Fun at Recess Homework

Having Fun at Recess Magnet

Having Fun at Recess Mini Schedule

Having Fun at Recess Outline

Having Fun at Recess Parent Note

Having Fun at Recess Teacher Note

Pre/Post Assessment

A pre and post lesson assessment is included in each lesson. Use of the assessment is an instructor preference.  Many of the ‘homework’ pages for a lesson can be used as a pre/post assessment device alone or as part of the provided assessment.  Each homework page can be checked by the instructor as well as the student.

Review all included pages of the lesson to determine what ‘assessment’ method will meet your needs.  If the student is able to achieve a + in the majority of items of the pre-assessment, or if the student has been observed to display the skill topic of the lesson often, then the lesson may not be introduced or can be taught with a group as review and/or reinforcement.

Having Fun at Recess Pre/Post Assessment

If you have questions or concerns about the Watson Institute’s use of this information, please contact us.