Can I have my turn? Will you wait?

Child: Najma and Saleh Date: August 2013 Written by: Eunjoo Kia ora/As-salamu alaykum Najma and whnau, This afternoon, I noticed that Saleh and Najma were having a great talk with each other. I saw Saleh approach Najma. When Saleh went to Najma and grabbed the car to stop her, she looked a little bit worried and turned her head to me. I reminded Saleh to use a gentle words and hands such as saying Can I have my turn? and waiting for his turn. However, Najama refused to give him a turn and Saleh kept holding the car tightly. They looked busy talking each other and I found that amazingly there was no trouble but only smiles and negotiating between Najma and Saleh. Later, Saleh pushed the car for Najma and they had a great time together.

What is happening here? The most important learning that happened here was through the social interaction. One of the goals in Te Whariki suggests the importance of an environment where children are encouraged to learn alongside others. This develops skills for friendships such as taking turns, problem solving and thing about the other persons feelings. Najma, Im so happy to see your positive social interaction with your friend. While playing with Saleh, you showed your good communication skill, smiles and turn taking. From your facial expression and body language I knew that you did not want Saleh to come to you because you thought he was going to take the car. However, you compromised the situation and became good friends with him. I really love to see you making friends who are different to you (Contribution, Goal 1) and developing your strategies and skill for maintaining and enjoying a relationship with other children (Contribution, Goal 3). Whats next for Najmas learning step? Najma, our teachers will keep supporting you to develop your complex social problem-solving skills through games and dramatic play. Child/Parents/Whnau Voice