Strings of Life

A creative game for children to explore their daily experiences, express what’s important to them, and connect with others through shared values.

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Everything you need to play this game

  • 1 spinning wheel with different types of days or situations (e.g., sunny day, rainy day, birthday, first day of school…)
  • A set of strings or yarn pieces (1 per player)
  • A collection of symbols or charms (small pictures, paper cutouts, or beads) representing activities, emotions, or values (e.g., family, friendship, sports, music, helping others, etc.)
  • A board or space where players can attach their strings and symbols
  • Basic craft supplies: cardboard, scissors, glue, markers, tape, paperclips

Make it yourself

1

Step 1

Spinning Wheel

Prepare your base:

Cut a round piece of cardboard to use as the wheel.

Divide the wheel:

Draw lines to create 6–8 equal sections.

Label each section:

Give each part a different “type of day,” such as:

  • ☀️ Sunny Day
  • 🌧️ Rainy Day
  • 🎂 Birthday
  • 🥳 Party
  • 👨‍👦‍👦 Family
  • 👯 Friends
  • 🏫 School

Add a spinner:

Attach a spinning arrow in the center. Make sure it can move freely and point to any section.

2

Step 2

Game board

Prepare a shared base:

Use a large cardboard sheet or corkboard where all players can attach their strings.

Add connection points:

Mark small dots, holes, or pegs around the board’s edge where players can tie or tape their string.

Prepare personal strings:

Give each player one piece of string or yarn — ideally a different color for each.

Prepare the symbols:

Create small paper icons, drawings, or charms that represent emotions, activities, or values (e.g., a heart for love, a ball for play, a book for learning). These can be attached along the string with tape or clips.

3
Good job!

A step-by-step guide to play the game

1

One player spins the wheel to determine the type of day — for example, Rainy Day or Birthday.

2

Each player thinks about what a day like that means to them.

For example:

“On a rainy day, I like to read books.”

“On my birthday, I eat cake with my family.”

3

Players choose symbols on the board that represent their activities, feelings, or values for that day and tie their string around the pegs of those symbols.

4

Once everyone has determined the route of their string, players may notice similar symbols or experiences, as multiple strings can be attached to the same symbol, creating visual connections between players.

5

Repeat the game with different types of days or situations. Encourage children to talk, listen, and discover how much they have in common.

Extra game information

The Strings of Life game promotes:

  • Emotional expression and communication skills
  • Connection and empathy between children
  • Reflection on personal values, activities, and routines

It’s a gentle, creative way for children (and adults!) to share stories and find common ground.


This game concept was developed during a StreetwiZe leadership expedition with Telenet in a refugee center in Lanaken, Belgium.

Variations

  • Solo version: Each player creates a personal “string of life” to reflect on alone.
  • Thematic round: Focus on one theme — e.g., “family,” “school,” or “friendship.”
  • Art version: Use colored beads, clay, or fabric to make the strings more tactile.
  • Group reflection: End each round with questions like “What did you learn about your friends?” or “What makes you feel most free and happy?”


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