Playing increases pre-primary pupils’ team spirit

Team building is important with children of all ages, as it prevents bullying. With pre-primary pupils, team building means doing things together through play. Pre-primary teacher Netta Husu from Auroran päiväkoti day care centre answers questions about team building in pre-primary education.  

Question: What is the purpose of team building? 

The purpose of team building is to get to know everyone in the group, acknowledge everyone in a positive manner and strengthen the group’s team spirit and sense of community.  

To me, the most important thing is that we see each member of the group as a unique and valuable individual and practise important life skills by learning, gaining insights and having fun together.

Question: How does team building prevent bullying? 

It strengthens the sense of community and team spirit. When everyone feels like a valuable and important part of the group, the atmosphere in the group is warm and respectful.

Question: What is a good team-building game? 

My pupils’ absolute favourites are the games we play with the play parachute. Each child has an important role in creating amazing shapes with the parachute.  The play parachute is a versatile toy that enables us to practise working together and, for example, learn each other’s names. At the same time, we learn new things about each other.

Text: Maria Tiilikka. 

This article has originally been published in the Espoo Magazine 2/2023.

Read other articles in the Espoo Magazine.