Teaching Kids to Include Others
Quick Answer
Teach inclusion in two steps: notice and invite. Help your child spot someone alone or left out, then practice simple invitations like "Want to play with us?" or "You can sit here." Role-play it at home and praise it when you see it happen.
What it looks like by age
- 4
Age 4
Can invite a child to play with help and reminders.
- 5–6
Age 5–6
Can notice someone alone and ask them to join.
- 7–8
Age 7–8
Can stand up for kids who are being left out and include them in groups.
Why it happens
Most children want to be kind but don't notice who's left out or don't know what to say. Practicing makes inclusion automatic.
What to say
"Look around. Is anyone playing alone?"
"You could say, 'Want to play with us?'"
"How do you think it feels to be left out?"
"You invited the new girl to play. That made a big difference."
Instead of… try…
Tap a card to flip it.
Try it together
At home
5 minTwo-Word Invitation
In the classroom
10 minBuddy Bench Practice
☀️ Sunny's Shine Challenge
Ask your child to invite one person to play who's alone this week.
Questions parents and teachers ask
Do kids have to include everyone?
Kids can have favorite friends, but they can still be kind and invite others when someone is alone.
What if my child gets told no when inviting?
Praise the brave invitation and help them try someone else.
Sunny says
“Two little words can change someone's whole day: "Wanna play?"”
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