Taniesha Burke, Contributor

Boys from the Shady Grove Basic School in Kingston.- File

Group play involves two or more individuals and is one of the most exhilarating, exciting and fulfilling interactive experiences for children.

Group activities are more memorable and joyous when shared with friends and family, and are irreplaceable gems that provide a foundation for the development of the skills needed for an individual to become a healthy and well-rounded person.

Group-play activities provide learning experiences that teaches the child:

Kindness

To resolve conflicts

To build friendships

To respect others

To communicate thoughts and feelings

To understand how input is essential to the successful outcome of the group

To develop more positive feelings about others

To develop team spirit

To work collaboratively, share ideas and take on responsibilities for the benefit of the entire team

To learn and study others' emotions and how they respond in different situations

To work in a productive way

To share and take turns which builds and maintain healthy relationships, even in adulthood

To foster healthy competition with others

To be confident. A shy child won't gain confidence if always alone, without friends

The more a child is around others, the more the brain is being stimulated to constantly explore others and everything around.

Here are some group-play activities that can certainly provide some of the benefits mentioned above.

1. The freeze game - A musical recorder or radio is required. The parent or caregiver asks the children to scatter around the room evenly. When the music begins to play, children should move and explore the room in creative ways (e.g., hopping, skipping or dancing) in time with the music. When the music stops everyone should freeze in their position for two to three seconds, then the music plays again. Children with mobility challenges should be encouraged to move whichever body part they can.

2. Cat and dog game - Two stuffed animals are needed for this game. One represents a cat and the other a dog. The group sits in a circle on the floor. The dog and the cat are passed around the circle in opposite directions. This is done to the music. The aim of the game is to get the animal to a predetermined point without dropping it. The child who drops the animal will do a dance, sing or some other activity.

3. Fashion parade game - The parent or caregiver divides the children into teams of four and gives each group dress clothes and accessories. One child from each group is selected to be the model and to dress according to a particular theme. Themes can be cartoon or story characters or television/movie characters. Each group is given a chance to parade its model while the commentator of the group explains the creation.

4. Backyard treasure hunt game - This activity allows each child to develop problem-solving and language skills. The game can be played in a backyard or park. The adult hides several items within the yard or park and splits the children in two equal groups. Each team is given a small container to collect the hidden items. A specific time is allotted for the game. Each team is rewarded according to the number of items collected within the allotted time.

Always keep group activities fun, with emphasis placed on every child or group of children being a winner, instead of being in a competition. Single-child caregivers can consider inviting the child's friends over for an afternoon of fun and games.