Boundary Setting Practice Role Play
Practice saying 'no' and setting boundaries in common tween scenarios through role-play — building confidence and self-advocacy skills.
What You'll Need
- 1Scenario cards (optional)
- 2Paper for writing boundary phrases
What You'll Need
Scenario cards (optional — you can discuss verbally)
Paper for writing down useful boundary phrases
How to Play
Define boundaries: "A boundary is telling someone what's okay and not okay with you. It's healthy and it's kind."
Scenario 1: "Your friend wants to copy your homework." Practice: "I don't feel comfortable with that, but I can help you understand the problems."
Scenario 2: "Someone keeps using a nickname you hate." Practice: "Please call me by my real name. I don't like that nickname."
Scenario 3: "A friend pressures you to do something that feels wrong." Practice: "I'm not going to do that. If you're my friend, you'll understand."
Role-play each one. Your child plays themselves, then switches to play the other person.
Write down useful phrases: "I'm not comfortable with that." "No thanks." "I need some space."
Discuss: "Why is saying no hard? What makes it easier?"
Why It Works
Boundary-setting is one of the most important social skills for tweens, and one of the least practiced. Kids who can say "no" comfortably are more resistant to peer pressure, less likely to be taken advantage of, and more confident in social interactions. The role-play gives them actual words to use — not just the concept of saying no, but the specific phrases that feel natural in their mouth. Playing both sides builds empathy for how the other person might react, which reduces the fear of setting boundaries.
Tips
Normalize boundary-setting as a form of self-respect, not rudeness. "People who care about you will respect your boundaries."
Include scenarios about physical boundaries too: personal space, unwanted touching, privacy.
Practice until the phrases feel automatic. Muscle memory for social scripts is real.
When real boundary situations arise, debrief: "You set a boundary today. How did it go? How did you feel?"
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 20 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: scenario cards (optional), paper for writing boundary phrases.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 8-12 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This activity has a moderate difficulty level. It may require some preparation or guidance, but is manageable for most families.
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