ASCA Mindsets and Behaviors

Incorporating games into small group counseling can transform your sessions into engaging and effective learning experiences. Here are seven creative ways to use games to enhance your small group interactions.

Icebreakers: Start your sessions with fun icebreakers like scavenger hunts or "Would You Rather?" games. These activities help students bond, encouraging openness and participation in the lessons that follow.

Mini Lessons: Turn learning into play with games like a Jeopardy-style quiz or an escape room activity. These interactive formats allow students to grasp essential concepts while having fun, making the lessons memorable.

Teaching Skills: Use games to model and practice important skills. Activities like "Simon Says" can teach self-control, while personalized UNO reinforces lessons about emotional regulation. Play alongside your students to create a relaxed atmosphere.

Reinforcement and Assessment: Check retention of past lessons through relevant games. This playful approach can reveal what concepts need revisiting, making your sessions more targeted and effective.

Collaboration and Teamwork: Games naturally foster social skills. Activities like scoot games or cooperative board games promote teamwork and interaction, essential for building strong relationships among peers.