Friendship Problem Solving Scenario Cards
Work through realistic friendship dilemma cards and discuss multiple solutions — preparing kids for the complex social world of tweenhood.
What You'll Need
- 1Index cards for scenarios
- 2Pens
- 3Container for cards
What You'll Need
Index cards for writing scenarios
Pens
A container to hold the card deck
How to Play
Write age-appropriate friendship scenarios on cards. Examples: "Your best friend starts excluding you to hang out with someone else." "A friend asks you to lie to their parents." "Someone is gossiping about a friend behind their back."
Shuffle and place face-down.
Draw a card and read the scenario aloud.
Each person brainstorms a possible response — no judgment on any ideas.
Analyze each option: "What would happen next? How would everyone feel?"
Decide which response seems wisest and discuss why.
Role-play the scenario so your child practices the actual words they'd use.
Why It Works
Tween friendship dynamics are genuinely complex — exclusion, gossip, loyalty conflicts, and peer pressure are real challenges that most adults remember painfully. Discussing these scenarios at home gives kids rehearsal time for situations that move fast in the moment. When they've already thought through "What would I do if a friend asked me to keep a secret I shouldn't keep?" they have a framework when it actually happens. The role-playing is essential — knowing the right thing to do is different from having the words to actually say it.
Tips
Write scenarios based on situations your child has mentioned or that you know happen at their school.
Never judge their first response. Some answers will surprise you. Discuss consequences, not correctness.
Include situations where there's no perfect answer. Real life is messy, and acknowledging that builds trust.
Update the cards regularly. Social challenges evolve as kids get older.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 25 min, with 15 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: index cards for scenarios, pens, container for cards.
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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