No matter how many times you tell your kids that they can tell you anything, getting them to open up can sometimes be hard. When I was getting my master’s in counseling, I learned a great way to break the ice with kids.
During my counseling practicum, my supervisor suggested using Jenga to help kids loosen up in therapy. You write one question on each wooden block. Then you take turns pulling a block, just like Jenga, but you read the question on the Jenga piece and answer it.
You don’t have to be a therapist to use play therapy in the home. This is a great way for your teen to open up to you. It is also a way for your teen to learn more about you. The goal is to ask open-ended questions versus “yes” or “no” questions. Also, keep in mind that you must be willing to answer any of the questions on the game pieces. So, don’t write any questions that you would not be willing to answer.
What I like about this method is that it takes the pressure off by turning conversation into a game. It creates a door for further conversation without being intimidating.
Here are five examples of questions you can put on the Jenga pieces.
1. What is your favorite memory? Nostalgia is all the rage right now.
2. If you could have one superpower, what would it be and why?
3. If you could be an animal, which animal would you choose to be and why?
4. What is your favorite thing about yourself and why?
5. What does your perfect day look like?
So, the next time it’s a rainy day or family game night, give this twist on an old classic a try.
