ABSTRACT
It is widely recognized that children use play to learn language, practise cognitive skills and rehearse social interaction as well as to re-enact and interpret difficult experiences. Adults too can benefit from the opportunity to explore their capacities in a non-threatening environment, away from daily pressures. Games are a form of structured play. Valuable learning takes place through enjoyable activity defined by a set of rules. Games can be competitive, resulting in only the most able winning at the expense of other players. They can also be co-operative, validating all participants equally, and building mutual support within the group. Group leaders use co-operative games to help participants to get to know each other, to establish rapport and to develop team spirit.
