We believe that learning never ends, even after the school bell rings after school.

Tips & Tricks

1. To ensure safety and encourage participation, take the time to prepare detailed rules and game objectives and make sure all participants understand what is expected. 2. When explaining a new activity, limit distractions including noise, keep instructions short, use clear/plain language and provide demonstrations.

3. Look for signs of discomfort or confusion so you can address individual participant needs and allow all to feel comfortable and successful in completing the activity.

4. Work to reduce wait times for activities done individually to ease any anxiety caused by social comparison.

5. During activities do not single out participants for their actions (negatively) and make sure that you praise all participants.

6. Choose small group activities more often to allow more opportunities for active participation.

7. Plan the necessary modifications for any activity to ensure it is possible for participants of all ability levels to take part in a way that makes them feel supported and safe.

8. Remember that everyone is an individual and we all have different comfort levels. Consider the motto “Challenge by choice,” which offers participants the ability to decide the level of participation.

9. When participants are hesitant about trying something new, emphasize the value of trying something not in their comfort zone and provide positive support during their first attempts.

10.Reduce the emphasis on winning. For example, do not keep score.

11.Games like musical chairs and dodgeball can be fun, but are competitive. Choose games that foster friendship and build self-esteem more often.

12.Playing tag in a room that is too small is a safety issue or doing a sitting game in a large room is an invitation for distractions. Make sure you have the right space for your activity.