My Identity: a game for sharing a little about yourself

“I enjoy…” can open a much easier conversation than “Tell everyone about yourself.” This activity offers a few starting phrases and lets each child decide what they want to share.

Get ready

Prepare six large cards: “I am…”, “I can…”, “I believe…”, “I enjoy…”, “I am learning…”, and “I spend time…”. Use a table or clear floor area, with optional music. Allow about 20–30 minutes. A small family can take turns; a class can work in smaller groups.

How to play

1. Read the cards together. Give an ordinary example, such as “I am learning to mend my bike.” Make clear that nobody has to share a secret or prove an ability.
2. Place the cards where everyone can reach or see them. Players can move between cards, pass them around a table, or choose a numbered card from their seat.
3. If you use music, pause it and invite each player to finish the phrase on their chosen card. Walking is optional; keep paths clear and avoid racing for a place.
4. Listen without interrupting, correcting a personal preference or comparing children. A player may answer in a home language, sign, draw, use a communication aid or ask someone to read their words.
5. Offer another card or a pass whenever a prompt feels uncomfortable. Start a new round only when people are ready.

Protect the choice to keep something private

Identity can include family, culture, faith, interests and many other things. Don’t ask children to disclose sensitive information in front of a group, and don’t treat one answer as their permanent label. “I believe…” may be replaced with “I wonder…” if that is a better fit.

After the game

Ask, “Did you learn about an interest you share?” or “Was there a phrase you would use again?” Skip points for disclosure. The invitation is to express something true and comfortable, not to win by revealing more.

For another day, let children write their own prompts. Keep any displayed cards or photos within the sharing permissions agreed with the child and their caregiver.

Watch the activity

Watch the original activity demonstration. Use the flexible participation and safety options above when you play.