What are your best tips and tricks for play based learning?

What curriculum do you use for classroom circles? I like to introduce my students to a circle by using this book called the Sharing circle. The animals in the story help the students learn how to resolve conflicts. We don't have a curriculum in my district, but we do teach our students how to handle conflicts in a peaceful way. I also use my circles to discuss how we can improve as a class as far as treating each other with respect.

Which Kagan strategies do you find the most useful in your classroom? I like to use quiz-quiz-trade and talking chips. Both of these strategies help the students with their speaking and listening skills.

What is tough for kids about being social?