Simplifying RPGs for Kids
When first getting into roleplaying games, rules can be daunting even for adults. But kids are actually more open to roleplaying as their imaginations are wild and open. For parents wanting to get their children interested in creative play that teaches teamwork, math, and stimulates the imagination, RPGs can be modified to accommodate your adventurous younglings.
Here are 5 simple tips for parents teaching kids how to play their favorite RPG.
Make basic characters: When learning the game at a young age, there’s no need for extended character sheets and detailed character information. To make things easy, create a few characters for them to choose from. Make the character sheets very basic with limited stats and just enough info to play such as stats, AC, HP, equipment, spells, etc. Leave out skills, abilities, and extended backgrounds. Let them choose which character resonates with them.
Use limited rules and teach as you go: No need for volumes of rules and guidelines. Use your knowledge to allow the players ways to roll for things and guide them with simple combat rolls, casting spells, and suggesting tactics. Instead of explaining rules of the game, when the situation arises, roleplay why they can or can’t do a thing. This helps them learn rules organically so when kids dig in deeper into rulebooks, they will eventually have an overall comprehension on why the rules are as written.
Focus on the story: Kids just want to have fun. Much like the kid in all of us, they want to be a hero, roll dice, play with the minis, and imagine epic adventures. Kids get bored easily and if your story isn’t compelling to them, they may lose interest. Engage every player every round. Give the party an overall goal so they work as a team. Offer surprises, suspense, and a payoff at the end.
Easy props for easy fun: Don’t worry about using all the detailed terrain and well painted minis you use for your adult game group. Anything in the home can be used as terrain and the kids will use their imagination. Game pawns or trinkets can serve as minis. Let the kids dress in costume to represent their character or give them a prop such as a wand or toy shield. Treasure can be in the physical form of candy, coins, or plastic gems.
Make the payoff victorious: In the end, keep the kids wanting more by giving them an end story that makes them proud of their actions. Whether they save the town, recover the artifact, slay the beast, or discover a hidden horde, make the ending something they remember. Offer a token for each player as a reward for teamwork. Tell them a story that shows how their teamwork paid off. Compliment each on something in the adventure they did well and should be hailed for!
Dungeon Crate offers many items that can help generate excitement for your young adventurers. Take a look at some of our mini character sheet notepads, initiative trackers, minis, dice, and props. We also have several kid-friendly one-shots and adventures that can be modified for any age or experience level. Let the adventure begin!
