Self-esteem can be a touchy subject with children. That is why counseling games are so helpful! You aren't asking questions, the games are. Games help to externalize the issue and make it easier for kids to process. I have found some great games to help with different aspects of self-esteem to help kids live their best lives.
by Pathways to Peace
This is a book and game about multiple intelligences. There are many ways that people are smart and these forms of intelligence are often overlooked since they are not in IQ tests or school curriculums. There are several different types of intelligence that people have, with each person being strong in some areas and weak in others. For instance, someone might be very high in nature intelligence but low in emotional intelligence. Kids will be able to recognize that it takes all different forms of intelligence to survive as a society, with each gift as a blessing to other people.
by The Responsive Counselor
This game helps kids identify positive self-talk statements, brainstorm ideas for success, and increase self-awareness. The road trip design offers metaphors and symbols to help children remember the content. It is available for both a printable download and a Google Slides option for telehealth. It is $4 on TPT.
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by Pathways to Peace
Children often want to fit in and be like others, but each person is made to stand out. This book and game help children understand the four different personality types to better understand what makes them who they are. It also discusses the differences between introverts and extraverts as well as those who enjoy physical affection vs. those who want personal space. As they learn to embrace their individual qualities they will grow in confidence and appreciate the differences.
by Counselor Chelsey
This resource has three games that come together: a board game, a letter game, and a dice game. They are made to help children with positive self-talk and to cope with issues leading to challenges with self-esteem. It is listed at $3 on TPT.
by Pathways to Peace
This is a cognitive behavioral game about uprooting negative self-talk and focusing thoughts on what is good. The garden metaphor highlights the idea that just as flowers come in all different shapes sizes, and colors, so do people. When brought together, they make a beautiful bouquet. This game is great for self-esteem, social skills, understanding diversity, and overcoming negative self-talk. Be sure to grab the free accompanying E-book. You can get the PDF download and telehealth versions for $7.50 or a hard copy for $12.50.
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by The Happy School Counselor
This board game challenges kids to think about the qualities and talents that make them unique. It includes a gameboard, spinners, and game pieces to play. It is $2.50 on TPT.
by Pathways to Peace
This game has children role-play how to stand up to bully characters as well as identify positive self-talk statements. It has 3 shootouts presenting a challenge they must pass to continue on in the game. Kids will earn tokens to overcome challenges and identify ways to use positive self-talk statements. In the end, they discover that negative self-talk is the biggest bully of all, but now they are prepared to defeat it.
by Counselor Keri
This one has a fun storyline and imagery. It has children use their tools and weapons to get themselves out of the well and into the castle with assistance from the knight's helpers. It is $5 on TPT.
This book and game are about a girl who tries to impress others or buy friendships to feel included. She learns that it is the intrinsic, personal qualities that make her special. Everyone has hidden treasures in their heart - personality traits, character qualities, skills, and talents that are unique to them. Once Penny learns to embrace her identity, she realizes that the gifts in her heart are there to share with others. The game helps children explore their unique qualities and identify the treasures in their hearts.
by Mental Fills
This is a dice game to help kids challenge intrusive or maladaptive thoughts related to body image. This game can help kids recognize cognitive distortions. It is $4 on TPT.
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