Why is it Important for Children to Learn Cooperation? 

27th January 2023

Cooperation is an essential social skill. If we can cooperate well, we can accomplish great feats and solve significant problems. 

Because it’s an essential skill, it’s crucial for children to learn cooperation at an early age. This way, they can become comfortable interacting and cooperating with others whether at home or early learning centre. This can also help them experience more fun because playtime and extracurricular activities often require interaction and cooperation. 

Benefits of learning cooperation at an early age 

Cooperation often means working together towards achieving a common goal. This can also mean having fun together and learning how to get along with others. 

Cooperation can also help children feel their sense of belonging and contribution. When in a group (whether it’s solving a puzzle or doing an artwork with other kids), children can better sense their role and place. They will know that they need to contribute and they need help from others. They will also realise at an early age that they can go further and get more things done if they work together. 

Teaching cooperation 

To teach and encourage cooperation among children, here are some practical ways: 

  • Take turns (e.g. do something and then it’s your child’s turn) 
  • Regularly ask your child on everyday decisions (such as which snacks to prepare next) 
  • Practice positive reinforcement (always tell your child how cooperation helps others) 

These simple ordinary activities can help children better sense their roles and contribution and that of the others’. Also interestingly, although the emphasis is on contribution and cooperation, these activities can also help them practice their self-reliance and initiative. They will still contribute but also figure things out on their own so as not to bother others (and let them focus on their own tasks and roles). They will also start to take the initiative when something important is not being done. 

When children learn how to cooperate at an early age, this can also further encourage them to take part in more activities (which are often in a group setting). This exposes them to more learning opportunities and expands their comfort zone. This can help accelerate their development and better prepare them for the big school.