Week 1: What games do I like to play?

Weekly Focus

Children explore different types of games, identify their favorite games, and discuss what makes games fun. They'll learn basic game vocabulary and begin to understand that games have rules and objectives.

Week at a Glance

Identify different types of games
Express personal game preferences
Learn basic game vocabulary
Understand that games have rules

Weekly Overview

Theme

What games do I like to play?

Focus Areas

Game types
Game preferences
Game vocabulary
Basic rules

Key Vocabulary

gameplayrulesturnwinlosefairboard gamecard gameball game

Creating a Game-Friendly Classroom

Set up a dedicated game area in your classroom with a variety of games appropriate for kindergartners. Include simple board games, card games, and materials for physical games. Establish clear rules for using the game area, such as taking turns, sharing materials, and proper cleanup. Rotate games regularly to maintain interest and introduce new challenges.

Daily Plans

Monday: Introduction to Games

Daily schedule and activities

Morning Activity

Morning Circle: Discuss 'What is a game?' and why we play games

Literacy Focus

Read 'Join In and Play' by Cheri J. Meiners

Math Focus

Count and sort picture cards of different game types

Afternoon Activity

Create a class chart of games students like to play

Materials Needed

Join In and Play book
Picture cards of games
Chart paper
Markers
Sticky notes

Assessment Notes

Observe students' prior knowledge about games and their ability to identify different types of games.

Featured Activities

Game Sorting Center

Students sort picture cards of different games into categories (board games, card games, ball games, etc.) and discuss what makes each type unique.

Duration

30 minutes

Materials

Game picture cards
Sorting mats
Labels for categories
Real game examples

Learning Areas

Classification

Vocabulary

Discussion Skills

Create-a-Game

Students work in small groups to create a simple game using classroom materials. They must decide on basic rules and how to play.

Duration

45 minutes

Materials

Paper
Markers
Dice
Game pieces
Various classroom materials

Learning Areas

Creativity

Collaboration

Problem Solving

Game Show and Tell

Students bring in a favorite game from home (or a picture of it) and share with the class why they like it and how it's played.

Duration

30 minutes (over several days)

Materials

Games from home
Show and Tell schedule
Discussion prompts

Learning Areas

Speaking Skills

Listening Skills

Game Knowledge

Roll and Move Math Game

Students play a simple board game where they roll a die, move that many spaces, and perform a simple math task (count objects, identify numbers, etc.).

Duration

25 minutes

Materials

Game board template
Dice
Game pieces
Math task cards

Learning Areas

Number Recognition

Counting

Turn Taking

Supporting All Learners

Games naturally differentiate for various ability levels. For students who need extra support, pair them with a peer buddy during game play or simplify rules. For students who need more challenge, introduce variations to games that require more strategic thinking or add additional rules. Remember that the goal is for all students to experience success and enjoyment while playing games.

Resources

Books

"Join In and Play" by Cheri J. Meiners
"Play With Me" by Michelle Lee
"Bad Kitty Does Not Like Video Games" by Nick Bruel
"The Recess Queen" by Alexis O'Neill
"Let's Play!" by Hervé Tullet

Printables

Game type sorting cards
Game vocabulary cards
Simple game board templates
"My Favorite Game" writing template
Game rules visual cards

Home Connection

Send home a family activity sheet that encourages families to play a simple game together and discuss what makes it fun. Include suggestions for simple games that require minimal materials.

Back to Games Unit Next Week: Who do I play games with?