Hooray for Our Team!

What are cooperative games?Cooperative games are special games where everyone is on the same team! Instead of trying to win against each other, we work together to reach a goal. It's all about teamwork!Why do we play them?We play cooperative games because they help us practice being kind, sharing, and talking to each other. When we work as a team, everyone feels happy and included. The most important rule is to have fun together!

How to PlayThe goal is for the whole team to keep a balloon from touching the floor.Everyone stands in a circle.A grown-up tosses a balloon into the middle.Work together to tap the balloon up in the air. You can use your hands, head, or knees!If the balloon touches the floor, don't worry! Just pick it up and start again.Teamwork TipsCall out to a friend who is close to the balloon. Say things like, "You got it, Sam!" or "Over here!".

How to PlayThe goal is to untangle your team from a mixed-up "knot" of arms.Stand in a circle, close together.Reach across the circle and grab one hand of two different people.Now you're in a knot! Without letting go of hands, talk and work together to step over, under, and turn around to untangle the knot and make one big circle again.Teamwork TipsUse your words! Say, "Can you try stepping over my arm?" or "Let's all turn this way." Be gentle and patient with your friends.