Working Together Is a Skill: What Children Can Practice Through Shared Challenges
One starts building immediately. The other wants to discuss the plan. Before long, someone says, “You’re doing it wrong!”
Sharing a table gives children an opportunity to collaborate. They still need guidance and practice in how to do it.
Give each child a meaningful contribution
In a shared challenge, one child can easily take over while another watches.
Thoughtful task design creates reasons for both to participate. One child might explain a plan while another checks it against the challenge. They can then exchange responsibilities.
The aim is for each child to contribute ideas, handle materials and take part in decisions.
Different children may need different kinds of encouragement.
A confident speaker may need to practise making space. A quieter child may benefit from time to prepare an idea before sharing it.
Make disagreement something they can work with
When children have competing ideas, an adult does not always need to choose the winner.
Try asking:
“What does each idea help us achieve?”
“Could we test both?”
“What would help us decide?”
A disagreement can become a practical investigation. Children can compare results and explain their reasoning, with support where needed.
They also need language for the social side of the task: “Can you explain your idea?” “I haven’t had a turn yet.” “Could we try this together?”
Reflect on how the group worked
Afterwards, ask one question about the teamwork as well as the finished result.
“When did listening to each other help?”
“What could you do differently next time so that everyone contributes?”
At Robotix Hub Academy, communication and collaboration are part of the learning we aim to make visible. A shared activity gives children opportunities to practise explaining, listening, negotiating and taking responsibility.
The model matters.
Explore how RHA brings practical challenges and collaborative learning together, join us for a free trial lesson.
Have a great week ahead.
RHA Team
