Playing fairly with each other is a skill that kids need to learn to be able to get along in their interactions. Kids of most abilities can learn how to play fairly.

As parents and mentors it is our job to model fair play and that is not necessarily getting down on the floor and playing with the kids. Rather, kids learn about fair play watching all our interactions - with kids and other adults in all situations at home, school, shopping, on trips and excursions to name a few.

The concept of fair play that we want to teach is that everyone has the right to their opinions and to express themselves up to the point that they do not broach upon others' freedom and free will, or that would hurt another.

Fair play is put in action more times during the day then we may be aware of on first thinking about it.

It is playing fairly in the adult way when we share time in the bathroom - without using up all the hot water. This example carries over to the breakfast table in sharing that favorite box of cereal amongst the siblings.

Suppose 3 kids want the same cereal and there is just enough in the box for two bowls, what to do? Dividing the cereal into 3 instead of 2 bowls and having an extra piece of toast to supplement is one way to play fairly - it is a win-win situation.

In the household, in sports, on the playground, in the classroom, in the mall - fair play gives each person time to participate in the fun, work, making decisions. It is a time to give a little energy in caring and kindness so that the underdog benefits and has fun, too.

Playing fairly feels good because being kind feels better than the effect on the body of being selfish. Kindness brings up feelings of being energized and expansive, and being selfish makes people feel contracted like they have to spend energy protecting what they have.

Playing fairly, besides feeling good and expansive, leads to living in harmony with people in all situations during the day.

As we model fair play for the kids we benefit ourselves through feeling in harmony, benefit our relationships by maintaining peace, and become good examples for the up and coming generation.

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Article by Susan Kramer