Play & Pretend: JP: 8. Control Myself, Not Others - Story

Some children can be rigid in their play and have a strong need to control a game or have things their way.  They may also be black/white in their thinking and become very upset when they see others breaking the rules.  As a result they tell their friends what to do or tattle on their friends even in situations when it is not necessary.  This story aims to highlight the difference between controlling ourselves versus trying to control others.  It teaches children to share ideas in play and not dominate their friends during play.  It also reminds children that others can’t control them and encourages assertiveness.  They learn that they can’t control who their friends play with and that it’s okay for them to have lots of different friends.  It also teaches children that they don’t have to tattle about everything other children do wrong.  They are taught to ask themselves 3 questions: 1) Am I in danger?; 2) Is someone else in danger? 3) Did I try to sort it out myself and it didn’t work?  If the answer to any of these is YES, then it’s a good idea to tell an adult.