Not only children want to play, but practically all participants in sports lessons have this need, and the right to play, so that the hoped-for experiences of play, movement, community and success can materialise. This also applies to many previous forms of exercise: You only learn to play by playing.

Before the game: Creating optimal conditions
The leader can create optimal conditions by paying particular attention to certain points when preparing for a game. This can make it easier to start the game.

Introduce few and simple game rules
Determine suitable playing fields and mark them clearly
Ensure a safe and obstacle-free playing environment
Use suitable game material
Form suitable groups (small teams) and mark them clearly
Convey a game concisely, clearly and in simple language

During the game: leading, observing and varying the game
A game is fun when everyone understands it. Therefore, it makes sense to spend enough time and repetitions so that the (new) game is understood.

Observe the game and count points visibly
Carefully observe and assess the game and intervene with advice if necessary
Vary the game appropriately
No substitution bench - avoid waiting times (stay in instead of dropping out)

After the game: ensuring an optimal conclusion
Playing games triggers intense emotions such as joy, happiness and pride, but also anger, rage and disappointment. It is therefore important that participants learn and practise how to deal with them. At the end of each lesson or training session, participants should be in a positive mood so that they are motivated to come back. The conclusion of the training session therefore plays an important role. The leaders are offered approaches to provide support in emotional situations.

Talk about the game
Learn how to deal with victory and defeat
Address fair behaviour
Use rituals and calming forms of play

Tournaments offer an opportunity to integrate playing into lessons and can function as a learning control. For many athletes, competing against others and experiencing their personal performance limits is a major challenge. The physical, coordination, mental and tactical skills acquired in lessons can be applied in competitions. Dealing with emotions, which are strongly linked to victory and defeat, can be practised sensibly in competitions. Competitions are motivating and allow the personality to be expressed.

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