How Games Can Help Your Child Make More Friends (and Keep Them)

Discover how both digital and tabletop games build the relational and communication skills your child needs for lasting friendships.

Games aren’t just entertainment — they’re powerful tools for helping children grow the communication and relationship skills they need for real‑world friendships.

In this 60‑minute session, we’ll explore how both digital and tabletop games can strengthen skills like listening, empathy, turn‑taking and confidence in a way that feels natural and fun.

You’ll leave with practical ideas you can try straight away, plus a clearer understanding of how play helps children connect, communicate and feel more secure in their friendships. Come along if you’re curious, want fresh ideas, or simply want to understand your child’s social world a little better.

Age recommendation:

This talk is particularly suitable for neurodivergent young people and their parents / carers.

The session is also relevant to anyone looking to learn more about neurodivergence, including educators and those working in a SEN environment.

Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent / carer.

Pay What You Can £3 / £6 / £10

The Auditorium, The Forum

Nicci Rossini

Nicci Rossini, Founder of Little Spark Learning, is a learning games designer and former primary teacher and importantly, a parent to three children, one with additional needs. Nicci knows how vital it is for children to feel understood, especially when they face adversity, in its many forms.

All Nicci's work is inspired by real-life experience and a belief that every child deserves to feel confident, included and heard.

Little Spark Games

Little Spark Games was founded by Nicci Rossini, a former primary teacher and learning designer with a passion for children’s social and emotional development.

Inspired by her own family’s experiences—particularly supporting one of her sons with global developmental delay—she understands the power of play and games to build connection, empathy, and confidence in children.

With a background in teaching, coaching, NLP, and mental health advocacy in schools, she creates flexible, engaging games designed to help children develop essential social skills.

Her resources support both everyday classroom learning and small group interventions, helping children connect, grow, and thrive.