At Dunvegan Nursery School, we’ve noticed our children displaying high energy levels and a strong need for running, jumping, exploring, and physical contact with their friends. This has led to some instances of rough-and-tumble behavior among the older children. While this can sometimes be concerning, it is important to recognize that such behavior is age-appropriate and aligned with developmental norms for 4- to 6-year-olds.

Why Rough-and-Tumble Play is Important

Rough-and-tumble play is essential for children’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. Through this type of play, children learn self-control, compassion, boundaries, and gain a better understanding of their own abilities in relation to others. It provides a safe environment for children to explore aggression, learn limits, and develop the social skills necessary to become well-adjusted adults.

Setting Boundaries and Modeling Good Behavior

We understand that rough play can sometimes result in children getting hurt, causing distress for both the children and their parents. This is particularly true when some children have not yet learned how to channel their energy appropriately. It is crucial for us as educators and parents to recognize these developmental phases and set clear boundaries for play while modeling good behavior for our children.

At Dunvegan Nursery School, we consistently:

• Remind children to stop play by using phrases like “No” or “Stop it, I don’t like it” if they feel uncomfortable or accidentally hurt.

• Emphasize that words have power and encourage children to use their voices instead of their fists when overwhelmed by big emotions.

• Reinforce that forcing a friend to play in a way that makes them uncomfortable is unacceptable.

• Encourage children to report any behavior that makes them feel uneasy to their teachers.

• Teach children that hands are for helping, not for hurting.

• Stress that biting, kicking, and punching are not acceptable behaviors.

• Instill the importance of apologizing as part of learning sociable behavior.

Encouraging Safe Rough-and-Tumble Play at Home

Rough-housing and rough-and-tumble play can be enjoyable and beneficial. We encourage you to engage in these activities at home with your children, always being mindful of their personal boundaries. Some ideas include:

• Engaging in extra-mural activities like swimming, yoga, gymnastics, soccer, and rugby, which promote physical fitness and team skills.

• Playing chasing games like tag or pretending to be animals or monsters.

• Wrestling, having a tickle war, or going outside for a piggyback ride.

• Playing tug of war with a rope or hosepipe.

• Giving big bear hugs or rolling your little one in a blanket for calming deep pressure.

• Letting your child help carry weighty objects during household chores.

A Note on Labeling and Bullying

Please be mindful of how we refer to or label children as “naughty” or “bullies.” Labeling can be detrimental to a child’s character development. While bullying is a serious issue, we maintain a strict no-tolerance policy against it. It’s important to recognize that many children are involved in rough-and-tumble play, and we work hard to ensure that no child is unfairly singled out or labeled.

We also ask that you be aware of how little ears listen to adult conversations, particularly when discussing incidents involving your child. Children are likely to repeat what they hear at home.

If you have any concerns or queries, please do not hesitate to contact us so that we can address the behavior appropriately.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in fostering a safe and supportive environment for all our children.