Integrative games are not only a way to release energy but, above all, an excellent method for building relationships between children. Shared laughter, movement, and cooperation help a group understand one another better, while each child feels important and seen. Such activities play a crucial role both in preschool and in school, as they help break shyness, teach teamwork, and develop empathy. What types of integrative games are worth knowing and using to support children in creating a friendly atmosphere?
Movement games – energy in the right direction
One of the simplest and most beloved ways to integrate children is through movement games. These activities allow children to get to know each other in a natural, joyful way. Running together, chasing, spinning in circles, or imitating one another’s movements not only releases tension but also teaches how to respond to group cues.
Classic examples include games like “The Old Bear Is Sleeping,” “One, Two, Three – Red Light,” or “Our Little Balloon.” In each of these, children share a common goal, and success depends on collaboration. For older preschoolers and younger schoolchildren, team-based movement games that include elements of friendly competition work particularly well, teaching fair play and mutual respect.
Circle games – getting to know each other better
Circle games are especially helpful in new groups where children are just getting acquainted. Sitting or standing in a circle gives everyone an equal place – no one is left out, and each child feels equally valued.
The simplest circle games are those that help remember names, such as “Pass the Ball and Say Your Name” or “Spark of Friendship,” where children pass a hand squeeze around the circle, creating a symbolic chain of connection. For older children, activities that help them discover shared traits are perfect, such as “Find someone who also likes strawberry ice cream” or “Who else has a dog at home?” Through such exercises, children notice similarities and find it easier to build bonds.
Drama and role-playing games – stepping into a role
Theatrical games are a fantastic way to break emotional barriers. Taking on different roles allows children to see the world from another perspective, fosters imagination, and develops empathy. Performing short scenes together – for instance, about friendship, helping others, or playing as a group – not only strengthens integration but also helps children understand emotions and social situations.
An engaging option is a drama game like “Frozen Pictures,” where children create “living sculptures” that represent certain situations, such as a day at preschool or a family picnic. Each child contributes something unique, and together they create a complete scene. This teaches teamwork, listening to others, and creative thinking.
Musical games – rhythm, joy, and cooperation
Music is a universal language that brings people together. Musical games are an excellent form of integration – singing, clapping, or playing simple instruments together helps children overcome shyness and enjoy the feeling of togetherness.
Favorites among children include “Dancing Pairs,” “Balloon Dance,” or “Freeze When the Music Stops.” A shared rhythm unites the group, helping them act in harmony while improving their sense of timing and coordination. Such activities not only develop musicality but, above all, strengthen social connections.
Art activities – creating together
Art-based games are another great way to integrate children while allowing them to express emotions and cooperate. Jointly painting large sheets of paper, making collages, or building structures from boxes sparks imagination and gives children a sense of accomplishment through teamwork.
One lovely idea is creating a “Tree of Friendship,” where each child traces their hand and attaches it as a leaf. This symbolic project teaches shared responsibility and reinforces the feeling of belonging to the group.
Verbal games – conversations that connect
We can’t forget about verbal games, which enhance communication and teach attentive listening. Children love games like “Telephone,” “Say Something Nice to Your Neighbor,” or “Finish the Sentence: I like when…”. In these activities, words are key – they carry the power to build trust, support, and a positive atmosphere.
Verbal games also have an educational value – they teach empathy, respect, and gratitude. They help children put emotions into words and better understand one another.
Why are integrative games important?
Every type of integrative game – regardless of the form – has one common goal: to strengthen the bonds between children. Thanks to them, preschoolers and students open up faster, cooperate more willingly, and learn to resolve conflicts peacefully. Play is a child’s natural language – through it, they learn about the world, its rules, and emotions.
Regularly incorporating such activities into the daily schedule helps the group become a well-connected team where everyone feels included. And this sense of belonging and acceptance is the foundation of healthy relationships – not only in preschool but throughout life.
