"Let's run away from x" game

[Epictantrum]

Hi, my DS is in reception and is getting increasingly upset by some of the behaviour of the kids at school, I'm not sure if he is being bullied. They frequently play a game where they push each other over which I think DS plays too, although we have advised it is not a very sensible game. But today he said he felt sad as several children played a game which involved them running away for him so he didn't have anyone to play with.
I think he is vulnerable as he has some coordination difficulties and seems quite shy. He doesn't really have any specific friends at school.
How can I help him? I keep talking to the teacher but she just keeps saying she will keep an eye out for him,and it keeps happening. I feel so sad for him.

That sounds like a horrible game OP .

Have you updated the teacher about today's developments? I imagine you've only found out after school, so probably not.

I'd tell her what he told you as a matter of urgency. Yes, keeping a watching brief was probably the right thing to do earlier, but it's now crystallised into your ds being picked on.

No, haven't told teacher yet about this game. I find it hard to judge how bad it is, because I think DS is quite socially immature (as are most 4 year olds, I guess) and he can't judge whether a situation is malicious or not.

Will definitely talk to her tomorrow though. I find it a bit awkward as I have to speak in front of other parents on the way into school.

Are you sure they weren't just playing tig?
I know that when ds was playing in reception they tended to assume everyone was playing, so would just tap someone and say "tig" and then run away. I know ds a few times thought people were just running away before he realised it was a game and joined in enthusiastically.

The push everyone over game I would expect the teachers to crack down hard as it's obvious someone will get hurt.