Peer Mediation Role Play Practice
Practice being a mediator in pretend conflicts between siblings or friends — learning how to help others resolve disagreements fairly.
What You'll Need
- 1Scenario cards with common conflicts (optional)
- 2Paper for writing solutions
What You'll Need
Scenario cards with common kid conflicts (optional — you can improvise)
Paper for writing down agreed solutions
How to Play
Explain the mediator's role: "A mediator doesn't pick a winner. They help both people find a fair solution."
Create a scenario: "Alex and Sam both want to use the computer. They've been arguing for 10 minutes."
Two people play Alex and Sam. The third is the mediator.
The mediator follows a script: "Alex, tell me what happened" → listens → "Sam, tell me your side" → listens.
The mediator reflects: "So Alex, you feel it's your turn, and Sam, you feel you weren't finished."
The mediator asks: "What would be fair for both of you?" and guides them toward agreement.
Rotate roles. Everyone practices being the mediator, the initiator, and the other party.
Why It Works
Mediation is one of the most advanced social skills, and practicing it gives tweens a superpower. The mediator must stay neutral (impulse control), understand both perspectives (empathy), summarize without bias (active listening), and guide toward compromise (negotiation). These skills transfer directly to real conflicts at school, on teams, and in friendships. Kids who can mediate become natural leaders because peers trust them to be fair.
Tips
Use real conflicts that have already been resolved as practice scenarios. The emotional distance makes practice easier.
The hardest mediator skill: staying neutral when you agree with one side. Practice this explicitly.
Write down the agreed solution. Written agreements feel more binding to kids.
Some schools have peer mediation programs. This practice at home prepares kids to be real mediators.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 25 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: scenario cards with common conflicts (optional), paper for writing solutions.
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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