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Role-Play with Kids: Switch the Roles!

Method

Role-Play with Kids: Switch the Roles!

Children and parents switch roles in common media-related situations

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Overview

  • Target group:
    Parents, Children
  • Group size:
    Small group
  • Duration:
    30–45 min
  • Materials:
    • Scenario cards
    • Simple props — remote control, phone, blanket, tableware, etc. (optional)

Goal

To promote empathy and mutual understanding between parents and children around media habits and daily routines.

Steps

1

Invite parents and children to participate in short role-plays where they switch roles: the child becomes the parent, and the parent acts as the child.

2

Explain that this is a playful and safe activity where everyone can explore everyday situations in a new way.

3

Present a scenario card (e.g. "The 'child' is watching TV, and the 'parent' asks them to turn it off and help set the table"). You could act out a scenario together with another teacher to break the ice.

4

Let the pairs act out the situation, improvising naturally. Encourage humor and creativity.

5

After each role-play, lead a light group reflection:

  • How did it feel to switch roles?
  • What was surprising or funny?
  • Did this help you understand something new about each other?
6

Repeat with other pairs and scenarios. If time allows, try a "replay" with different responses.

7

Emphasize that the goal is not to judge behavior, but to learn from each other and talk openly about routines, rules, and feelings.

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