Do you want to play with me: Didatic games for ... - AVSI-USA

5. ENHANCEMENT GAMESThese games are useful to underline the importance of positive thinking and to developself-esteem in order to prevent depressive symptoms and negative self-thoughts.Self-esteem is an important aspect for children’s positive growth that allows them toface challenges and to test themselves in new situations. Aggressive children andteenagers often act with strength and determination although inside they lack confidenceand depend on other peoples’ opinions. The impotence of a weak “self” causesaggressive behaviors. A positive self-esteem reduces uncertainties and the tendencyto aggressive behaviors. People with a strong “self” are able to recognise and respecttheir own limits and those of others, to communicate to others their needs and will;they learn to manifest feelings, express themselves and admit what’s negative, avoidingfeelings like lack of strength, fear or regret that can lead to aggressiveness.On the contrary, children with a weak “self” are not able to carry themselves in a positiveway in relationships with others. They may not have the opportunity to reconcilethe negative image they have of themselves with their positive traits and they reachthe conclusion that other people consider them in the same way they see themselves.Giving a child the chance during a game to experience his/her own value and developself-esteem is an important step towards preventing social aggressive behaviours.Reinforcing one’s own “self” and self-esteem are prerequisites for the positive developmentof human qualities and social relation-ships, forming the foundation for responsibleaction.At the end of each game we can ask one or more of these questions, to allow theparticipants to gain awareness of the reason for the game and to give the trainerfeed-back from the group:What have you learned in this game for your life?Do you think you ever use this game in your life? When and how?41