Developing whanaungatanga/relationships in play

This afternooon a group of children enjoyed using some of the cricket equipment. Initally James found a bat and was instantly on a hunt for a ball, after finding one Hugo joined in and together they took turns hitting the ball. The smiles on both boys' faces after they hit the ball shared the pure excitement they felt. They continued to take turns hitting the ball toward each other for quite some time, the ball wouldn't always be hit on the first go so perseverance was key as they tried and tried again.

Guy, Elliot and Myra had been watching James and Hugo in play for some time, so when they had finished they were quick to have their turn! They had a slightly different approach to their play, a tee was used to hit the ball off. Ke tahi te whakaaro pai -  That's a good idea. Once Guy had his turn hitting off the tee, Elliot had his turn and this continued. Myra wasn't wanting to have a turn with the bat, she was happy to watch - smiling each time the boys hit the ball.

Throughout these experiences the children involved spent valuable time together, building trust that supports the development of their whanaungatanga/relationships. Turn taking was clearly evident in the games played and allowed the children to get to know one another a little better.