Kids Connection: Harnessing the Power of Games to Teach Kids Empathy, Resilience and Creative Problem-Solving

Along with inventing endless fun, designers who create games for kids should take advantage of opportunities to design transformative social and emotional learning (SEL) experiences for young players. That might include helping kids manage emotions, rebound after a setback, standup for themselves and others. In this session we'll look at the developmental journey from childhood to young adolescence with its joys, fears, triumphs, and challenges. By understanding the journey from this perspective, game designers can empower young players with skills and insights needed for success in games and in real life. We'll also look at current titles that do an exceptional job of meeting kids where they are and helping them level up.