We are a program that provides games for children after school. We specialize in “Dungeons & Dragons”, “Magic: the Gathering”, and board games. We run weekly local groups, offer one time events, and provide flexible options. We are best suited for children ages 7-12, but can tailor our programming to meet any age or developmental need.
Why choose gaming?
Children learn through play. It is an engaging way for them to practice reading, math, memory, strategy, and teamwork. There are many interesting words to add to their vocabulary, and a great deal of simple math to be done regularly. Having a practical application of these skills is one of the best ways for kids to learn and become interested. There is a lot of cards, concepts, and rules to be learned. This is a great way to show kids how much they can memorize if they put their minds to it. Strategy and teamwork are essential pieces to these games. Learning how to consider your teams needs, acting together to a common goal, and communication are all valuable skills to learn at a young age.
An alternative for kids who need something other than sports and art. Does your kid stay home all day, asking to play Minecraft or watch YouTube? Are they disinterested in the usual group activities? Is sports just not their thing? Are they bored of art? Or maybe they already play on a sports team and want something more calm? This is a great way to get them involved in group activities.
Get your kids off the screens, while enjoying creative social play. We live in an age where more and more of our children’s lives are spent in front of screens. This is a great opportunity to reinforce an interest that gathers their friends for some face to face game time.
Building friendships. Having a group like this is a great way for kids to make new friends and create long lasting friendships. Many people find it easier to engage socially when there is an activity and interest being shared. This is great for introverts and those who struggle socially. There are large communities of gamers, but the groups you form at a young age are a really special experience.
Creative learning. These games are based in fantasy worlds, where imagination abounds. The kids explore these worlds in many ways, learning and creating their own ideas. There is a great deal of creative expression in DnD, both in the characters and in decision making. MTG has complex concepts that challenge kids to understand how they all connect. These can be great creative outlets for kids to express themselves through.
Emotional and ethical learning. In all games and contests, there are those who win and those who lose. Coming to terms with that can be hard, even in adulthood. Experiencing this with guidance at a young age helps them grow in a healthy way. In this program we learn how to manage out emotions, be positive, support and understand each other, and how to be respectful. We even learn about the ethics and etiquette of game play. How to be humble when winning, not complaining when losing, and many more moments of character.
We focus mainly on “Magic: the Gathering” and “Dungeons and Dragons”, while offering simpler board games and card game options to younger groups. The games are created and curated by staff, adapting them to meet each group’s needs. All game materials are provided by the program, as well as support materials for kids who need a break.
Magic: the Gathering
This is a card game where players battle with spells and monsters. It involves strategy, planning, reading, and math. There are a variety of ways to play, including pre made decks and creating unique decks. Players may team up or try solo. There are lots of complex rules and steps, creating unique and challenging situations.
Dungeons and Dragons
DnD is a fantasy role play game where players create a character to battle monsters and complete quests. It is played using pencil and paper, as well as miniatures, maps, and imagination. DnD is a very versatile game, which we adapt strongly based on the age and development of the group. We craft each story or campaign, create monsters, and adapt game mechanics. We provide simple tools for learning and playing, focusing on allowing players to participate equally.
Board Games
We offer a variety of board games aimed at younger kids. This includes games like chess, checkers, Uno, Smash Up, and Connect Four. This can be a great way to begin their journey into further fantasy adventure games.
Higher needs kids
We are very considerate of higher needs children, and those who struggle to focus on sitting games for long periods. While many of these activities are fun and engaging, everyone needs a break once in a while. We provide fidget toys and “side quests” for those who need a break. We also have experienced staff who can help identify and regulate needs and emotions. Our programming is flexible, allowing kids to participate as they wish.
Wellness
We believe that health is an important aspect of gaming, so we include snack and a movement break in our programs.
The snack is very small and simple, with considerations of allergies. The movement break is a short routine we hope will encourage gamers to take care of their bodies. Some movement activities include passing a bean bag, doing jumping jacks, or stretching.
Managing big feelings
Emotions and ethics are two things that come up in every sport, game, and contest. Naturally game players must face loss, rules, and social expectations. The emotions that come with these experiences can be challenging. What we learn from them can shape who we are. Along with learning the rules of the game, participants will also have lessons in emotions and ethics associated with game play. They will learn to anticipate and identify difficult emotions, and develop tools to manage them. Some of this learning comes from talking about it as a group, and much of it comes from experiencing it in gameplay, with guidance and support.