Connect 4 Launchers is an action-packed game. It moves at a fast pace and can generate a lot of excitement as well as other big emotions. Kids will learn the need to calm down, focus, and control impulses to play well. There is also the aspect of modeling and mirroring, allowing the therapist to guide the child in using healthy coping skills and problem-solving skills.
What I love about it:
It is challenging. Kids will have to learn by trial and error. If they flick it too hard, it will fly past the game board.
It is fast-paced. Disks fly everywhere! Kids will often pick up their opponent's color due to not paying attention. This leads to a discussion about the benefits of slowing down and being aware of their behavior.
Whatever presenting problem the child is dealing with will pop right up during play. Kids with anxiety will get anxious, kids with anger problems will become frustrated, and kids with impulse control issues will go wild! This opens the door for processing and intervening.
It sets the stage for the therapist to model and mirror, allowing the child to become more aware of their behavior.
Related Post: Impulse Control Games - Counseling Games for ADHD
What I don't love about the game:
I'll admit it. I don't enjoy searching all over the place for all of the disks that went flying. Sometimes I'll find them hidden in really unusual places.
The excitement level gets a little higher than I enjoy, but the kids certainly love it.
It is a bit of a pain to set up and clean up.
The directions are not very clear.
Only 2 people can play at a time.
If you are looking for a game to address thinking before acting, this may be the right game. I'm sure there are clever ways to use it to tackle specific problems. I'd love to hear ideas.
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