How Kids Learn to ‘Do Their Part’ in a Group

Working in a group can be tough for elementary students. Someone wants to take charge, someone else shuts down, and others float in the background. But with guidance, kids can develop real teamwork skills that strengthen their relationships.

The Foundations of Teamwork

Before kids can collaborate effectively, they need to understand:

• Their role matters

• Other people have ideas too

• Conflict is normal and manageable

One of the simplest ways to teach this is through short, targeted group activities—like the one included in my “10 Minute SEL Lesson: Communication + Cooperation = TEAMWORK.” In just a few minutes a day, students can learn what respectful communication and fair participation look like.

Teach Team Roles

Give students specific roles to try out:

• Leader – Makes sure everyone is heard

• Recorder – Writes down ideas or decisions

• Timekeeper – Keeps things moving

• Encourager – Praises group members and boosts morale

Rotating these roles helps students develop a deeper appreciation for what others contribute.

Practice Productive Disagreement

Kids will disagree—it’s part of group work. The goal is to help them disagree respectfully. Teach sentence starters like:

• “I see your point, but I think…”

• “Can we try it this way?”

• “Let’s hear everyone’s ideas first.”

Using visual tools like the “Friendship Roll and Respond Game” also gives students structured ways to practice both problem-solving and empathy when working with peers.

Celebrate the Process

Don't just reward the final product—acknowledge the collaboration it took to get there. Use reflection questions like:

• What worked well in your group?

• What was hard, and how did you handle it?

• What would you do differently next time?

These debriefs build awareness and encourage growth over time.