Risky play is important for child development and something children actively seek. Even the rowdy games are needed, which is why the Swedish Budo and Martial Arts Association has produced the teaching material "Kamplek i skolan".
In schools, so-called 'rough and tumble' play is commonly banned, precisely because it carries risks of children getting hurt or sad. But research shows that play needs to cross the line into risky activities for children to develop a range of physical and social skills. They even seek out and prefer risky activities where they can test their skills: such as chasing each other, wrestling, joking around or climbing on each other.
The Swedish Budo and Martial Arts Association actively promotes movement understanding and has developed the test-and-learn material 'Kamplek i skolan' to allow children to develop important skills. For example, they practice communication and interaction, managing their own and others' emotions, and developing self-awareness and empathy.
The games are developed according to the principles of movement understanding. They are suitable for schoolchildren of all ages and are demonstrated in videos recorded by the association, free for all to access. They can be used during sports lessons, free time and recess.
