Lead the play
Grades 3-5
Setup | Opening | Play Time | Closing
Opening Procedure (5-7 minutes)
1. Explain that children will plan and lead games for the class today.
2. Tell children that the facilitator will support only when needed.
NORMS (30 seconds):
1. Leaders explain rules clearly.
2. Players listen and participate.
3. Everyone gets a role.
4. Solve small problems as a group.
More Pep-up Options
2/4
Setup | Opening | Play Time | Closing
Session Name
Run the Room
Age Group
Ages 9-11
Session Intention
Children plan, organise, and lead a full game session for the class with minimal adult support.
Materials Needed
• Mechanix Plastic (2)
• Jodo Straws (1)
• Mechanix-2 (1)
• Super Architect/Lego (2)
• Jodo Blocks (1)
• Magnetix-2 (1)
• Jumbo Blocks/Brilliant (1)
• Mechanix Beginner Asst (3)
Classroom Arrangement
1. No special setup. Use familiar games.
2. Make groups of 4-6.
3. You hand the session over and observe.
1/4
Setup | Opening | Play Time | Closing
Play Time (~25-28 minutes)
START PLAY:
1. Divide the class into groups of 4–6 children.
2. Give groups 5 minutes to pick a whole class game and plan how they will lead it. Example Games: Zip Zap Zop, Rock-Paper-Scissor Tournament, Hula Hoop Pass etc.
3. Ask groups to decide: What game they will play | Who will explain the rules | Who will organise the class
4. Invite each group to lead a game for the class for 5–7 minutes.
5. Rotate until all groups have led.
6. If time remains, ask some children to distribute games to each group to play.
YOUR ROLE DURING PLAY:
1. Allow children to explain rules and manage play.
2. Observe without taking over.
3. Encourage leaders to solve small problems themselves.
STEP IN WHEN NEEDED:
1. If a group is stuck, help them choose a simpler game.
2. If instructions are unclear, ask the group to explain the game again.
3. Intervene only when needed for safety or inclusion.
What You May Notice
1. Child-leaders will make different choices than you would. That is the point.
2. Some will be excellent at rules but struggle with group management.
3. Others will manage the room well but rush explanations. Both are valuable learning experiences.
3/4
Setup | Opening | Play Time | Closing
Closing (~3-5 minutes)
1. Gather the class and ask groups to think about their experience leading a game.
2. Invite 2-3 groups to share: What went well & what they could do better.
3. Ask children what helped them organise and lead others.
4. Appreciate children for planning and leading games.
5. Pack up the materials if used.
Try Next Time
1. Give teams a simple planning sheet to fill in before the session.
2. Ask the class to give each team feedback after their game.