At the Parents and Children Project, we believe every child deserves a space to grow, explore, and feel fully themselves. This fall, we’re inviting kids into just that kind of space—one filled with dragons, dice rolls, and the kind of bravery it takes to work together and try again.
We’re launching a new DnD Social Skills Group not just because it’s fun (though, let’s be honest, it’s ridiculously fun). We’re doing it because tabletop roleplaying games like Dungeons & Dragons (DnD) are powerful, evidence-backed ways for kids to build confidence, flexibility, and social connection.
Why DnD? Why Now?
In a world that can feel rigid and demanding, imaginative play opens the door to possibility. It allows players to imagine themselves as wizards, rogues, or warriors—but also as team members, leaders, and collaborators.
Every DnD campaign is a living social story—one where kids solve problems, manage emotions, listen to others, and make decisions under pressure. This isn’t just fantasy—it’s real executive functioning work disguised as epic adventure.
Research shows that roleplaying games support empathy, problem-solving, creativity, and group cohesion (Bowman, 2010; García, 2017). In our format—short, focused one-hour sessions—players still get the adventure, strategy, and camaraderie of DnD, without the marathon length of traditional games.
But Let’s Get Real for a Moment…
We’re not running this group to check a box or make pretend feel “productive.”
We’re doing it because we’re nerds. We actually play DnD in our own lives. We know the joy of a well-timed critical failure or an in-character debate over whether to befriend or battle a grumpy ogre. (Helmed by a Dungeon Master with 26 years of campaign experience, a +5 to Charisma, and a knack for turning critical fails into legendary laughs.)
And we’ve seen what happens when kids get to be silly and serious, brave and vulnerable—all in the same one-hour session. We’ve watched children who struggle with transitions become party leaders. We’ve seen quiet kids crack jokes and light up a room. And we’ve witnessed deep friendships form around the shared task of building a world together.
Inside the Group: What Players Will Do
- Design their own characters and help shape a shared campaign world
- Practice flexibility, planning, and decision-making
- Strengthen teamwork and communication with their party
- Tune into others’ personalities and perspectives
- Learn self-compassion when things don’t go their way—and how to support others when they struggle
- And yes, probably invent a potion that turns socks into swords
Why We Sometimes Offer Single-Group Formats
We believe in mixed-group play—and we also know from research and experience that certain group compositions can reduce pressure, increase silliness, and deepen peer connection, especially in early and middle childhood (Martin & Fabes, 2001; Rose & Rudolph, 2006).
Participants of all genders, including trans and non-binary players, are warmly encouraged to join the group that feels most aligned with their identity and comfort level.
For many young people, a DnD group becomes more than just a game—it’s a safe place to try new roles, practice flexibility, and step into leadership without fear of failure.
Group Details
Group: DnD Social Skills Group (Ages 8–12)
When: Tuesdays, 6:00–7:00 PM (every other week)
Starts: October 2025
Cost: $800 total for 8 sessions | $100 one-time intake session
Where: Campaign room at the Parents and Children Project
Small group size means each player gets space to build relationships, receive coaching, and fully participate in the adventure.
Giveaway!
To celebrate our launch:
- 🥇 One free full-tuition spot for all 8 sessions
- 🥈 One discounted spot (30% off tuition)
To enter, just register and complete your intake session. Winners will be drawn in September.
Imagination is more than play—it’s the engine of problem-solving, friendship, and courage. We’re honored to offer this group to kids who are ready to create, collaborate, and roll the dice.
Want to learn more or save your child’s seat? Contact us today—we can’t wait to welcome your family into our world of story, strategy, and support.