Several of my clients have attended birthday parties which included an Escape Room experience. They are so excited about it and I am enthused about the possibilities of using the concept in my therapy/coaching sessions. After searching for ideas and help, I am happy to report that the prospects are endless! An escape room challenge solves a variety of puzzles or completes a variety of missions. After each puzzle is solved, the players get a clue that leads them to a new location. Each new location includes a keyword to win and a new puzzle or mission.
Here are a few of the terrific creations that I found on Teachers Pay Teachers. I was looking for challenges applicable to my clients. I found articulation, social skills, executive function, reading and a variety of language challenges. These will get me started…
http://teacherspayteachers.com
Not every escape room challenge uses a lock box. I decided to get one and some fun word locks.
Not every escape room challenge uses invisible ink to add to the fun. I decided to get some along with a blacklight flashlight.
One of my older clients, a high school student, suggested using video clues! That sounds awesome! A video clue can be especially effective for a social skills challenge. As I discovered, the possibilities are endless.
Think about what the purpose of the escape room challenge will be. The activity will not do the teaching for me but can provide a fun way for my clients to apply and explore what they have learned in therapy/coaching sessions. The puzzles don’t have to be overly complicated but it is a good idea to balance easy, moderate and challenging task.
I plan for about 30min. for a solo client and 45 – 60min. for two or more working as a small group. So far, everyone has had a good time!!