When Group Dynamics Don’t Allow For Structure Or Freeplay

[DaisyMamma]

I have a group that is very difficult. When they freeplay they beat eachother up and when I try organized play they beat eachother up. When I try circle time they beat eachother up. OMG. I'm at witts end.
Right now we are outside and all is going well. But they are all playing on their own. It seems that when I put them together they argue, fight, etc. Soon enough wi enter will be here and I can't sit outside all day.
It's really one kid who makes it impossible. Not that the others are angels. He is new. Any suggestions on getting my routine to run smoother?

[Blackcat31]

How old are the kids?

What kinds of freeplay or structured play are you doing?

Just curious as that is important as to what you can and can't change about how they play (or don't play)

[MyAngels]

When my group gets all nutty I like to separate them into smaller groups in different areas of the room. The groups are of my choosing, as well as the activities. Sometimes a break from each other is all they need.

[DaisyMamma]

They are aged 20 months to 3 years. They can't really be split up in such a small area.

We trIed coloring today which consisted of ripping up the papers, taking eachothers crayons and papers, throwing crayons.
I tried reading books. Short board books. The new boy, age 2.5, would lIsten for a few pages. Then didn't want to listen, wouldn't sit, would scream NO and try to hit me.
I tried active dancing like head shoulders knees and toes. One wanted nothing to do with it. Only wanted to play cars and was yelling at me to stop it.
Tried passing a football around in a circle and the same thing happened.

I have no problem with free play all day long if nothing else works. But that doesn't work either. They will fight over toys, fight over nothing and throw toys, etc.

[Oneluckymom]

I would try putting EVERYTHING away and re introduce toys 1 at a time. When they want to do something they HAVE to do it together nicely or it goes away again. I think this the only way to help learn the art of group play and playing nicely.

They aren't being punished just taught HOW to play together without fighting. Good luck!!

[jojosmommy]

I agree with putting things away and teaching how to play together. And spliting them up. What about montessori mats? Group is a little young but some kind of divider might help.

[DaisyMamma]

I would try putting EVERYTHING away and re introduce toys 1 at a time. When they want to do something they HAVE to do it together nicely or it goes away again. I think this the only way to help learn the art of group play and playing nicely.

They aren't being punished just taught HOW to play together without fighting. Good luck!!

I'm on it. Tomorrow morning!