Welcome to the "Connected by Love" memory card game. This special set of cards is designed to help children navigate feelings of love, connection, and belonging, especially during times of separation, anxiety, grief, or loss. Each card features 15 "Me" cards, representing the child, and 15 relationship cards, each representing someone the child shares a bond with. The goal of the game is to show that, no matter the physical distance between people, love and connection are always present, even when they can’t be seen.
How to Play:
Set up the Cards: Lay out all 32 cards (16 "Me" cards and 16 relationship cards) face down on a flat surface.
Pick a "Me" Card: Each player (or the child) picks a "Me" card. This card represents them in the game.
Pair with a Relationship Card: The child then chooses one relationship card, such as "Mum," "Nonna," "Dad," or "Brother," to pair with their "Me" card.
Feel the Connection: Once a pair is chosen, read the sentences on the cards aloud:
"You can feel my love for you in your heart" (on the "Me" card).
"We are always connected, everywhere and any time" (on the relationship card). As you read these, remind the child that the invisible string between them and their loved ones is always there, no matter how far apart they are.
Play the Game: Mix up the cards after each round and pair them differently. Each time, remind the child that while the people in their lives may not always be physically close, love connects them wherever they are.
Talk About the Connections: After each round, you can take time to talk about the person on the relationship card. Encourage the child to think about their special moments, feelings, and memories with that person. It’s okay if these memories bring up different emotions—this is a space for comfort, understanding, and emotional healing.
Purpose of the Game:
- Emotional Support: This game is designed to support children as they process grief, separation, loss, or anxiety. Whether someone they love is far away or no longer with them, the game helps to reinforce the belief that their love remains strong.
- Building Connections: The invisible string between the "Me" card and the relationship cards represents the unbreakable connection that love creates. No matter where people are or what happens, their bond is unshakeable.
- Navigating Difficult Emotions: It’s natural for children to experience feelings of loss, loneliness, or anxiety, especially when they cannot be physically close to the people they care about. This game offers comfort and reminds them that they are always loved, no matter the circumstances.
Relationships Included in the Pack:
- Mum, Nonna, Jiji, Opa, Baba, Abuela, Granny, Auntie, Dad, Godmother, Uncle, Cousin, Brother, Sister, Dog, Cat
Special Notes:
- This game can be played with one player or as a group, and it can be repeated as often as needed. It’s not just a game—it's a tool for emotional support and connection.
- For older children or when talking about more difficult topics, you can use the cards as a way to start discussions about the emotions that come with family separation, death, or loss. This can create a safe space for children to express themselves.
- Remember: No matter how far apart people may be, they are always connected by love.
PDF 11 pages with instructions and front cover for cards
