Smart Work 2026: Game Keys

The Game Keys idea grew out of station-based work and enthusiasm for coming up with new activities for pre-primary education. The aim was to create a functional way of learning that also guarantees the joy of discovery, keeps children’s interest alive, and allows them to move around.

Game Keys integrate the goals of pre-primary education in a versatile way. In addition to language and mathematical skills, the tasks also practise peer learning, cooperation skills, helping a friend, teaching, listening and paying attention to others, taking turns, building friendships, tolerating disappointment, and problem-solving.

A picture illustrating the chosen task is attached to each Game Key (image below). The game tasks and their locations in the space have been gone through with the children. The tasks are done in pairs. Pairs choose a task, take the key from next to the picture, and go off to complete that task. The other pairs know that if the key is missing, that game cannot be chosen. At first, the pairs are eager to try all the tasks, but eventually their focus on the games increases.

Children quickly grasp the idea of the Game Keys and are easy to get excited about it. The Game Keys activity is continued regularly, combining it with physical activity and time outdoors.

Developer

Outi Vuorela, early childhood education teacher, Ojoinen Early Education Centre