Introduction: In the first few weeks, each squad will work together to first gauge experience and familiarity with Splatoon, experience low stakes gameplay (mainly through Turf War), and ultimately learn how to operate as a team through navigating each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

Outcomes:

• Improve gameplay skills, communication, relationship building, and trust between squad members.
• Create an exciting environment to have fun with our friends while playing what we love.
• Learn about identifying and managing emotions intentionally

Session Format: We’ll start each session with check-ins to:

• Get to know each other
• Identify our in-game goals and how we can work towards completing them. The first few sessions will be focused on gauging skill levels and finding rhythm within the squad rather than just gameplay. We’ll focus on basic multiplayer (Turf Wars) to start, and depending on skill levels, we will work towards higher ranked multiplayer modes (Anarchy Battles).

What You’ll Do:

• Make new friends
• Broaden friendships with current friends
• Practice winning, losing, and sportsmanship all through Splatoon gameplay
• Share experiences and form bonds with a community of like-minded peers
• Receive personalized guidance to enhance communication and emotional regulation skills

What You’ll Learn

• Social Confidence: Built through positive interactions and shared experiences.
• Collaboration Skills: Every kid discovers their unique way to contribute to a team.
• Improved Communication: Enhanced through practice, feedback, and social interaction.
• Emotional Intelligence: Learn to navigate feelings and responses in a supportive, accepting setting.
• Creative Problem-Solving: Encouraged by diverse game modes and activities all in Splatoon
• Community Connection: Form meaningful relationships with peers from different backgrounds. Attend the Recess Social hour with a group of friends!

What You’ll Need

• Ability to join sessions on gather.town (The Recess Virtual Universe)
• A working camera and microphone
• Access to a Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Online, and access to Splatoon 2 and 3