Some theory …

Cooperation is about teamwork! Cooperation allows children to obtain a result that cannot be achieved by one person alone. It is a co-construction between knowledge peers. In a context of cooperation, the child learns to listen to others, affirm his ideas and negotiate and integrate the opinions of others into his thought process. Cooperation allows the child to consider others around him and raise his awareness of the fact that he is member of a society.

How to stimulate the child's development through play...

In most games, it is possible to adapt game rules for a team rather than for individual play. In such a situation, allow the children time to reflect together on the choices and decisions to make. Cooperation requires time. When forming teams, pair up an older child with a younger child to develop the younger child’s skills and the older child’s ability to show consideration. Pairing together players of the same calibre adds to the challenge and encourages positive dynamics between team members. This type of pairing serves to capitalize on the strengths of each. In a context of cooperation, highlight participants’ efforts to integrate with their teammates. It is interesting to invite children to speak in terms of “us” rather than “I” (e.g., you don’t say “I found the right answer;” you say “we found the right answer”).