Today is rung 4 of 5 on this topic
Rules, fairness, and jobs people do
Can do: Explains why a rule exists rather than just naming it, and describes what different workers do.
Why it matters
Rules with reasons are followed; rules without reasons are tested. This is also the first step towards understanding laws and government later.
What it looks like when it's wobbly
Rules are only "because you'll get in trouble", with no notion of the harm they prevent.
⏱️ Two-minute check
"Why do we have to hold hands in the car park?"
Solid looks like: A safety reason, not a punishment reason.
The full activity for this topic · 10 minutes
Make the House Rules
- 1Write three house rules together, in their words.
- 2For each, ask "what would happen if nobody did this?" Write the reason next to the rule.
- 3Let them draw the picture for each rule and put it on the fridge.
- 4Talk about one rule outside the house — a school rule, a road rule — and its reason.
- 5Talk about who enforces rules in the community and why we need them at all.
If it's too hard
One rule, one reason.
If it's too easy
Discuss an unfair rule and what a fairer version would be.
Say this
"What would happen if nobody followed that rule? That's why we have it."