Spark important conversations in your household with this fun game.
Our inner strengths help us navigate the world around us. In times of both joy and hardship, identifying and reflecting on our inner strengths promotes strong resiliency skills, especially in young children.
Encouraging children to practice identifying their inner strengths can promote feelings of independence, self-regulation, empathy, positive self-image, and other important developmental skills.
Weaknesses are also an important topic to reflect on. Though they can at times be difficult to share, voicing them can help us work through them.
When we talk about our weaknesses, we may discover other individuals with complementing strengths who can offer support. And when we talk about our weaknesses in an open way, it can encourage children to feel comfortable admitting their own weaknesses.
We’ve put together a game that helps to initiate these important conversations. It’s very simple!
Individually cut out the 6 circular labels on the game sheet PDF and attach one at the end of each popsicle stick.
Place the popsicle sticks, label side up, into a small cup. Set the instruction prompt sheet in a location where all players can access it. You’re ready to play!
Taking turns, each player will close their eyes and select a popsicle stick.
Next, they will match the popsicle with a color-coded prompt and share their thoughts. Tip: If a player is stumped or having trouble sharing, fellow players are encouraged to help out.
Once completed, return the stick and the next player may begin their turn.
During times when it is difficult to find our own inner strengths, look to others who know you best — they may help you find the words by offering their perspective.
Likewise, if you see someone having a challenging time, offer your own words of encouragement and share the strengths you see in them.
This process of sharing different perspectives is an excellent exercise for children (and adults) to practice empathy.
“By providing a safe, non-judgmental space to share and explore strengths and weaknesses we support and encourage others to show their authentic self, promote self-acceptance, and further understanding of their world,” said Brooke Rustman, MS, LPC-Supervisee at Rising Hope Counseling, LLC.
So, the next time you have a chance, gather your loved ones, and encourage them to check in with themselves and share how they are feeling, what they need, and what inside them makes them feel strong and resilient.
Special thanks: Thank you to Brooke Rustman of Rising Hope Counseling for collaborating with us on this activity!
Spark conversations to promote resilience
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