Embedded Files
The games below are intended to help students establish and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships with diverse individuals and groups. These SEL games include skills such as communicating clearly, listening actively, cooperating, negotiating conflict constructively and seeking and offering help when needed.
Games that support positive relationships give players opportunities to practice building social bonds, communicating effectively, group interaction, and using conflict resolution strategies.
Modify: For older students, adapt this to “Name & Network” — students stand in a circle, someone calls another’s name along with a “connection fact” (e.g., “Jordan – plays in the jazz band”), then that student calls someone else with their fact. This builds peer-recognition, social connection, and memory of each other’s interests.
Reflect: “How did knowing something about someone else help you connect? In what ways did this change your view of them?”
Modify: Use prompts like “Find someone who’s taken on a leadership role” or “Find someone who handled a conflict calmly.”
Reflect: “What similarities did you find? How can these shared experiences strengthen relationships?”
Modify: Use themes around communication, teamwork, or empathy.
Reflect: “How did your team rely on nonverbal cues to succeed?”
Modify: Turn it into a “problem-solving relay” using classroom items—focus on communication and cooperation.
Reflect: “What made your team communicate effectively?”
Modify: Have groups untangle themselves without talking to emphasize teamwork under challenge.
Reflect: “How did you manage frustration and support one another?”
Modify: Keep statements optional but authentic (“If you really knew me, you’d know …”).
Reflect: “What did you learn about your peers that builds empathy or trust?”
Modify: Use it as a “group sync” warm-up—students pass a pulse through the group to signal readiness.
Reflect: “What helped your group stay focused and connected?”
Modify: Frame it as a leadership challenge where groups must communicate clearly to complete a task safely.
Reflect: “How did your group handle differing opinions or leadership styles?”
Modify: Use complex or humorous phrases related to communication or teamwork.
Reflect: “What does this teach us about how messages change when we don’t listen carefully?”
Modify: Add “team strategy captains” and focus on inclusive play and encouragement.
Reflect: “How did your team collaborate and handle competition?”
Modify: Turn into “Peer Spotlights”—each introduces a partner by highlighting one strength or leadership quality.
Reflect: “How did it feel to be recognized by a peer?”
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