Help a newcomer ask about joining the activity

Someone approaching a game may need to understand what is happening before choosing a role. Offer a clear request phrase and a welcoming explanation, without making polished wording the price of admission.

Explain the available activity roles as well as the request phrase. Joining becomes easier when the newcomer understands what participation involves.

Make the available roles understandable

Observe the activity. Ask a specific question. Discuss a welcoming reply.

'Is there a role I could try?' makes the request clear.

Joining should not depend on perfect phrasing.

What helps someone understand the options? Use pointing or a picture card.

Resources

• Welcome to Our Game Cards — Use the invitation prompts to practise welcoming and respectful responses.

Further reading

• ACECQA — play, leisure and intentionality

Read next

• When someone declines, a brief respectful answer is enough
• Paraphrasing checks understanding; it does not require agreement
• An exclusion discussion works better with invented characters

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