Getting your child to unplug in this ever-expanding digital world might seem impossible. However, we think we have a solution—Dungeons and Dragons! This tabletop game is designed to bring friends together, expand the creative side of their minds, and leave the phone on silent. We love playing it at AstroCamp and we think your child will too.
What is Dungeons and Dragons?
Dungeons and Dragons (aka DnD or D&D) is a fantasy role-playing tabletop game where players create their own characters and embark on fantasy adventures. When crafting a character, players get to choose a class that gives them special perks and abilities as they progress. A Dungeon Master (DM) serves as a referee and storyteller for the game. It’s their job to maintain the setting in which the adventures occur and play the role of the game world’s inhabitants, known as non-player characters (NPCs).
Everyone else’s characters form a party and together they solve problems, engage in battles, explore, and gather treasure and knowledge. Throughout the game, characters can earn experience points (XP) to level up and become increasingly powerful.
How Do You Play?
Once your character is developed, it’s time to play! While DnD might seem like a complicated game, it can easily be broken down into three steps: the setup, the decision, and the result. First, the DM crafts the fantasy world you’re playing in by establishing the environment and describing where you are and what’s around you. Once that’s set, it’s time to make a decision. You can pretty much do whatever you like, but before you set off on your adventure be sure to check your character card. This sheet keeps track of your strengths, weaknesses, and everything you need to succeed as an adventurer.
After declaring your decision and consulting your character card, it’s time to see the results of your actions. As the player, you roll that 20-sided die, and if it lands on a 20, your action succeeds. If it lands on one, it fails, or it can land somewhere in the middle indicating varying levels of success. Once the die determines your result, it’s back to the DM to describe what happens! Now you’re back to the beginning of the three steps, the DM will set up the next phase of the adventure, you’ll make a decision, and discover the results.
Is DnD Appropriate for All Ages?
Yes! What’s great about DnD is that the DM can tailor the story to fit the age of the players. Kids of all ages love the creative storytelling and magic of DnD so it’s never too early to get them hooked on this dynamic fantasy game. Plus, there are some incredible benefits your child can reap as they play.
What Are Some Benefits of Playing DnD for Kids?
Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence
Players can step into the shoes of heroic characters, allowing them to experience a sense of accomplishment and empowerment as they embark on epic quests. It’s a great place to step into those aspirational traits to be the person you want.
Improved Social Skills
Fundamentally, DnD is a game based on teamwork, collaboration, and cooperation. Most games are made of three to six players allowing everyone to practice effective interpersonal skills. Kids can learn to navigate social dynamics, promoting more confident and meaningful interactions in life.
Stronger Creative Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Role-playing sharpens creative thinking and requires your imagination, especially when solving problems. Whether that’s a trap or riddle amid a dungeon, or you’re facing a particularly tough combat encounter, DnD fosters creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.
Provides a Sense of Community and Belonging
Battling monsters and finding creative ways to get out of sticky situations is a sure way to build friendships with like-minded people. This strong community provides a place of emotional support, reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation, and nurtures a positive sense of identity.
Playing Dungeons and Dragons at AstroCamp
Here at AstroCamp, we believe in providing a nurturing environment where kids can be themselves with other campers who enjoy the same activities. That’s why we created Geek Week! This special session encourages campers to embrace their inner geek and enjoy our creative-based activities at camp.
One of our most popular activities at Geek Week is Dungeons and Dragons. A counselor, no sorry, a Dungeon Master will teach campers the basics, and then help each player create a character to take through a brand-new fantasy adventure. If your child has never tried this game before, here is their chance! Enroll your camper in Geek Week today, and see what adventures will roll their way.
