Leading Games

The best games are fun and spontaneous, but they don’t happen by themselves! They require a leader who is prepared and who wants every girl to feel safe and comfortable. Fortunately, there are guidelines to help us be that leader.

Be prepared!

Know:

• Who is playing, their knowledge of the game and their skill levels.
• Where you are playing, the size of the area and any obstacles.
• What resources you have access to (e.g., equipment including game pieces, boundary markers, goals and so on).
• What games you are playing, including their rules, objectives, age/skill ranges and so on.
• What might be difficult to play, assemble or explain.
• What problems you might encounter.

Be inclusive at all times.

Ensure that:

• Everyone is involved.
• Helpers are randomly chosen and there aren’t any “favourites.”
• Time outs are only for a short period of time and not the entire game.
• The rules are fair.
• Everyone can play these games.
• Everyone will feel challenged by the game and satisfied when it is over.

Be enthusiastic.

Be sure to:

• Start game play with energy. Be open, welcoming and a good role model.
• Allow girls to participate in their own way.
• Play all the games with the girls.

Play simple games, especially with a new group.

• Allow the girls to build up their confidence.
• Ensure that everyone knows the objectives of the game.
• Give easy explanations, use simple equipment and a short time frame.
• Begin with a general description of the game: its object, the type of game it is and a general time frame.
• Give clear, concise instructions followed immediately by a demonstration.
• If necessary, practice any special moves or phrases that are integral to game play.

Build up an array of cooperative games.

• Focus on team building and having fun.
• Avoid games that focus on winners and losers or involve physical contact.

Be flexible.

• Keep a sense of humour.
• Encourage the girls to take over the leadership of the games.
• Be prepared to modify any game.
• Don’t overplay any game.

Apply the same rules during game time as at any other time.

• Be clear with the girls about your expectations for behaviour.

Be a good facilitator.

• Make sure everyone can hear and see you.
• Give choices about who plays what.
• Put safety first.
• Encourage players.
• Let the girls take on a leadership role.
• Recognize when a game isn’t working and stop it.
• Pay attention to time.