Hopscotch Play Guides

 Let's get you started with Hopscotch Play! This guide will help you learn how to add clients, explore content, and use it with your clients, while introducing you to all of our exciting features designed to enhance your sessions.

Scroll through or use the links below to jump straight to the information you need. 

• About Hopscotch Play
• Optimal Device Specs
• Provider Dashboard
• Creating a Client Profile
• Managing Client Profiles
• Finding Content
• Exploring and Playing Content
• Pinning Content
• Gameplay Features and Tools
• Using 2-Player
• 2-Player and Your Telehealth Platform
• Cancelling My Subscription

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[#about]About Hopscotch Play[#about]

Hopscotch Play is a web-based platform that provides therapeutic content (games, activities, printables, etc.) for children between the ages of 5-18.  Our content is designed by child and adolescent behavioral health experts and is based in evidence-based interventions.

Hopscotch Play is designed to be a valuable tool for in-person and virtual sessions, offering a range of activities you can easily access on your computer and use with clients during therapy.

In-person Sessions

For in-person sessions, you can use Hopscotch Play by visiting the website and pulling it up on a laptop, desktop, or tablet during your client session. Allow your client to navigate and engage with Hopscotch Play.  Conduct session as you normally would, using Hopscotch Play game and activities to explore and process the presenting concern.

Virtual Sessions

For virtual sessions, you can use our innovative feature, 2-Player, with your clients. 2-Player makes it easy to engage virtually, allowing you and your client to explore interactive activities together, in real time, on separate devices.  Learn more about using 2-Player with clients.

[#specs]Optimal Device Specs for Using Hopscotch Play[#specs]

Currently, Hopscotch Play is best experienced on a laptop, desktop, or tablet. Hopscotch Play does NOT currently support phones.  See below for recommended device specs for a smooth experience.

For the best experience with Hopscotch Play, we recommend:
- An internet speed of 100 Mbps or higher for smooth streaming and gameplay
- A laptop, desktop, or tablet (NOT supported on phones)
- At least 8GB of memory and a recent processor (like Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5)
- Windows or Mac operating system
- Using Chrome, Safari, or Edge browsers

If your device doesn’t meet these specifications, you may experience slower load times and some lag during gameplay.

[#dashboard]Provider Dashboard[#dashboard]

Once you log in to your Hopscotch Play account, you'll land on your provider dashboard. This is your command center where you can:

> Access help materials

> Contact support

> Refer a Friend and earn!

> Add and Edit client profiles

> View Provider Newsfeed

> Enter client accounts and access games/activities

> Access account settings (billing, edit profile, reset PIN, agreements, and vote for features)

[#editing]Editing Your Profile[#editing]

After creating your Hopscotch Play account, you may want to make changes to your avatar, name, or PIN. This can be done by clicking on the Account icon and navigating to Edit Profile.  Once there, you can Reset your PIN, choose a new avatar, or update your name.  Once you press Save, your changes will be reflected on your provider dashboard.

[#creating]Creating a Client Profile[#creating]

To create an individualized client profile, you start by clicking the blue plus button to begin.  This will bring up the Add Client pop-up. Start by adding a screen name for your client.  This is the name that will show up on your client’s profile.  Optionally, you can add first and last names. These only show up on your provider dashboard and are helpful with keeping your client profiles organized.  You can browse through and select an avatar for this client.

Lastly, select the age range of your client and hit Save. Congratulations! You’ve created a client. You can see that their name and avatar are now on your provider dashboard.

[#managing]Managing Client Profiles[#managing]

To edit a client, click on Edit Clients.  Here you can manage your Hopscotch Play caseload and make changes to individual client accounts.  You can click and drag on this icon to reorder your clients. This changes the order in which they appear on your dashboard. You can also click edit to make changes to each individual account.  You can update your client's names, avatar, and age group.   If you want to delete a client, click delete. Be aware that this is permanent and any saved progress with this client will be lost.  Once you delete a client, their profile will be removed from your provider dashboard.

[#finding]Finding Content[#finding]

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Welcome to your client’s profile and library! The library is designed to help you quickly find the right resources to use in your session. With just a few clicks, you can filter content to match your client’s specific needs.To get started, choose the type of content you’d like to use. Simply click on any category to filter your results. You can also refine your search by setting a minimum and maximum age range. These age recommendations serve as a guide, but you can always use your discretion based on your client’s needs. Additionally, you can search by theme to focus on specific topics.For example, if you’re working with a 7-year-old client on anxiety, you might set the minimum age to 6 and the maximum to 9, then select "Anxiety" as the theme. The library will then display content tailored to your client.  If you need to start a new search or adjust your filters, simply click the X to remove them. And if there’s a specific activity you already have in mind, you can search for it by title.  Our content library is ever-expanding and new content is added weekly!

[#exploring]Exploring and Playing Content[#exploring]

Once you’ve found the right piece of content for your client, it’s easy to get started. Each content card includes a content type, title, short description, and a play button. To jump straight into the game or activity, simply press Play.If you’d like more details before starting, click More to open the content page. Here, you’ll find a longer description, therapeutic themes and tags, and the recommended age range. You’ll also see related resources that can supplement the activity. From this page, you can start the game anytime by clicking Play.

[#pinning]Pinning Content[#pinning]

Pinning is a useful feature that helps you quickly access content and makes session planning easier. Every piece of content in your client’s library can be pinned directly to their profile. To pin an item, simply look for the pin icon on the library page and click it. The icon will change, confirming that the resource has been pinned.

To view all the content you’ve pinned for a specific client, click View Pinned Content. This will display everything you’ve saved for easy access during sessions.  You can also pin content from within the content page itself. Just click More to open the content, then select the pin icon to add it to your client’s profile. 

[#gameplay]Gameplay Features and Tools[#gameplay]

Before playing a game with a client, we recommend exploring it on your own to become familiar with how it works. Once you enter a game, there are a few key features to notice.

First, every piece of content includes an “Info for Providers” dropdown. This is a private window that only you can see when using two-player mode with your client. Inside, you’ll find activity details, discussion questions, related resources, and pinned content—allowing you to seamlessly transition to another activity. To close this window, simply click the red arrow at the top.

On the right side, you’ll see a sidebar with additional features. Here, you can start two-player mode with your client. Depending on the game, you may also see:

-A Clear All button to reset progress.

-A Download button to save a PDF of the activity.  

This is helpful if you'd like to send the PDF virtually to a caregiver or upload it to the client's file in your EHR.-Audio controls to adjust the volume or mute sounds.

Take some time to explore these features so you can guide your client through the best experience possible!  

[#two-player]Using 2-Player[#two-player]

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2-Player is a feature that allows you and your client to play games in real time from separate devices, either a computer or a tablet.  Hopscotch Play does not currently support phones.

You’ll find the 2-Player widget throughout your client’s profile, making it easy to start a connection from anywhere. To begin, click the Play button on the widget, then select “Copy Link.” When the text changes to “Copied,” the link has been saved to your clipboard and is ready to be shared with your client.

When your client clicks the link on their device, both of you will be prompted to start 2-Player. Once they join, you'll receive a visual and auditory notification, and you’ll see that they are online. From this point, all interactions—drawing, typing, moving objects, and other gameplay actions—will stay in sync for both users.

In 2-Player, some features are only visible to you and will not be seen by your client. This includes the content filters on the main menu, the Info for Providers window, and certain toolbar options.

Important Notes for 2-Player:

-Minimizing the Hopscotch Play window or switching browser tabs on either end will temporarily pause the connection. Once the window is maximized, you both will be prompted to resume gameplay.

-Exiting your client’s profile at any time will end the session. If you leave, you will need to generate a new link for your client to reconnect. However, as long as you remain in the profile, the same link will stay active—even if your client disconnects.

-To manually end a 2-Player session, click the “End 2-Player” button. This will remove your client from the session.

If you experience any issues while using 2-Player, help is always just a click away. Use the Help icon to submit a support ticket, and include detailed comments or screenshots for faster troubleshooting.

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[#2playtele]Using 2-Player with Your Telehealth Platform[#2playtele]

The 2-Player feature in Hopscotch Play lets you and your client play together in real time. However, when using it alongside a telehealth platform, you may run into a common issue: if the Hopscotch Play window is minimized or if you switch to a different tab (like your video call), the connection to 2-Player will break.

Not to worry! Here are tips for keeping a stable connection on the most popular telehealth platforms:

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☝️ General Reminder:

Before your client clicks on the 2-Player link, make sure the Hopscotch Play window is active and not minimized. Any change in focus (like switching tabs or minimizing the window) can disrupt the connection. This can happen on the client's end as well. Encourage your client to stay in the game tab to prevent disconnection.

Zoom

If you're using Zoom:

• If you're using Zoom chat to send the 2-Player link, send it first, then minimize the Zoom using the yellow dot on Mac (in the top-left corner, between the red and green buttons) or the small horizontal dash on Windows (in the top-right corner). Minimizing your window will keep the Zoom video feed visible on top of Hopscotch Play.

• Once your Zoom window is minimized and is on top of your Hopscotch Play window, let your client know that they can now click on the 2-player link.

• This setup helps keep the Hopscotch Play window active and ensures a strong 2-Player connection.

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Google Meet

For Google Meet, use Picture-in-Picture (PiP):

• PiP allows you to see your client in a small floating window while staying in the Hopscotch Play tab. Some Google accounts turn this on automatically when switching tabs.
• If yours does not, look for the PiP icon by hovering your mouse over your client's video during a call. It appears as a square with a smaller square inside it, often accompanied by an arrow. Note: This option will only appear if your camera is enabled.

• Send the 2-Player link in the chat, then activate PiP and switch back to Hopscotch Play.
• Your client’s video should now stay visible as a small overlay while you are in the Hopscotch Play tab. Let your client know that they can now click on the 2-Player link.

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SimplePractice

For SimplePractice, use Picture-in-Picture (PiP):

• PiP allows you to see your client in a small floating window while staying in the Hopscotch Play tab. For SimplePractice, Picture in Picture isn't available when doing telehealth on a tablet or mobile device.
• You can access PiP by right clicking on your client's image. Find and select Picture in Picture. Note: This option will only appear if your camera is enabled.

• Send the 2-Player link in the chat, then activate PiP and switch back to Hopscotch Play.
• Your client’s video should now stay visible as a small overlay while you are in the Hopscotch Play tab. Let your client know that they can now click on the 2-Player link.
• To learn more, visit SimplePractice's Telehealth Help Page.

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Other Browser-Based Platforms

Using other browser-based platforms can be trickier since they don’t always support PiP. Here’s what works best:

• Open two separate windows—one for your telehealth platform and one for Hopscotch Play.
• Split your screen so both windows are visible. Keep Hopscotch Play larger, and your telehealth window smaller (but still big enough to see your client’s face and reactions).

• Avoid minimizing either window to keep everything running smoothly.
• If available, using a second monitor makes this even easier. You can dedicate one screen to your telehealth platform and the other to Hopscotch Play.

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Using 2-Player with telehealth takes a little setup, but with these tips, you can keep your sessions flowing smoothly while engaging your client in real-time, interactive play.

[#cancelling]Cancelling My Subscription[#cancelling]

Thank you for giving Hopscotch Play a try! If you are interested in making changes to your subscription status, you can do so by accessing your Account settings located at the top right of your Provider Dashboard.

Next, go to Billing, and then select Cancel Subscription.  When you cancel your subscription, your card on file will be deleted, but you will still be able to access our full library of PDFs, use our 2-player feature, and keep your client profiles in case you choose to upgrade again in the future.  You will be prompted to provide a reason for cancellation and let us know how we could have improved your experience. 

Once complete, your credit card on file will be removed and you will be on the free version of Hopscotch Play.  
To delete your account, you can proceed to Manage Account and select Delete Account which is located at the bottom right of the screen.  Deletion is permanent and you will lose all of your data including client progress.  To complete the process, click on the Delete button.  You are always welcome to create a new account if you are ever interested in returning in the future.

If you experience any issues, please do not hesitate to contact us through the Help button on your dashboard or email us directly at support@joinhopscotch.com.

 Let's get you started with Hopscotch Play! This guide will help you learn how to add clients, explore content, and use it with your clients, while introducing you to all of our exciting features designed to enhance your sessions.

Scroll through or use the links below to jump straight to the information you need. 

• About Hopscotch Play
• Optimal Device Specs
• Provider Dashboard
• Creating a Client Profile
• Managing Client Profiles
• Finding Content
• Exploring and Playing Content
• Pinning Content
• Gameplay Features and Tools
• Contacting Support

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[#about]About Hopscotch Play[#about]

Hopscotch Play is a web-based platform that provides therapeutic content (games, activities, printables, etc.) for children between the ages of 5-18.  Our content is designed by child and adolescent behavioral health experts and is based in evidence-based interventions.

Hopscotch Play is designed to be a valuable tool for in-person and virtual sessions, offering a range of activities you can easily access on your computer and use with clients during therapy.

In-person Sessions

For in-person sessions, you can use Hopscotch Play by visiting the website and pulling it up on a laptop, desktop, or tablet during your client session. Allow your client to navigate and engage with Hopscotch Play.  Conduct session as you normally would, using Hopscotch Play game and activities to explore and process the presenting concern.

Virtual Sessions

For virtual sessions, you can use our innovative feature, 2-Player, with your clients. 2-Player makes it easy to engage virtually, allowing you and your client to explore interactive activities together, in real time, on separate devices.  Learn more about using 2-Player with clients.

[#specs]Optimal Device Specs for Using Hopscotch Play[#specs]

Currently, Hopscotch Play is best experienced on a laptop, desktop, or tablet. Hopscotch Play does NOT currently support phones.  See below for recommended device specs for a smooth experience.

For the best experience with Hopscotch Play, we recommend:
- An internet speed of 100 Mbps or higher for smooth streaming and gameplay
- A laptop, desktop, or tablet (NOT supported on phones)
- At least 8GB of memory and a recent processor (like Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5)
- Windows or Mac operating system
- Using Chrome, Safari, or Edge browsers

If your device doesn’t meet these specifications, you may experience slower load times and some lag during gameplay.

[#dashboard]Provider Dashboard[#dashboard]

Once you log in to your Hopscotch Play account, you'll land on your provider dashboard. This is your command center where you can:

> Access help materials

> Contact support

> Refer a Friend and earn!

> Add and Edit client profiles

> View Provider Newsfeed

> Enter client accounts and access games/activities

> Access account settings (billing, edit profile, reset PIN, agreements, and vote for features)

[#edit]Editing Your Profile[#edit]

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After creating your Hopscotch Play account, you may want to make changes to your avatar, name, or PIN. This can be done by clicking on the Account icon and navigating to Edit Profile.  Once there, you can Reset your PIN, choose a new avatar, or update your name.  Once you press Save, your changes will be reflected on your provider dashboard.

[#create]Creating a Client Profile[#create]

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To create an individualized client profile, you start by clicking the blue plus button to begin.  This will bring up the Add Client pop-up. Start by adding a screen name for your client.  This is the name that will show up on your client’s profile.  Optionally, you can add first and last names. These only show up on your provider dashboard and are helpful with keeping your client profiles organized.  You can browse through and select an avatar for this client.

Lastly, select the age range of your client and hit Save. Congratulations! You’ve created a client. You can see that their name and avatar are now on your provider dashboard.

[#manage]Managing Client Profiles[#manage]

To edit a client, click on Edit Clients.  Here you can manage your Hopscotch Play caseload and make changes to individual client accounts.  You can click and drag on this icon to reorder your clients. This changes the order in which they appear on your dashboard. You can also click edit to make changes to each individual account.  You can update your client's names, avatar, and age group.   If you want to delete a client, click delete. Be aware that this is permanent and any saved progress with this client will be lost.  Once you delete a client, their profile will be removed from your provider dashboard.

[#find]Finding Content[#find]

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Welcome to your client’s profile and library! The library is designed to help you quickly find the right resources to use in your session. With just a few clicks, you can filter content to match your client’s specific needs.

To get started, choose the type of content you’d like to use. Simply click on any category to filter your results. You can also refine your search by setting a minimum and maximum age range. These age recommendations serve as a guide, but you can always use your discretion based on your client’s needs. Additionally, you can search by theme to focus on specific topics.

For example, if you’re working with a 7-year-old client on anxiety, you might set the minimum age to 6 and the maximum to 9, then select "Anxiety" as the theme. The library will then display content tailored to your client.  If you need to start a new search or adjust your filters, simply click the X to remove them. And if there’s a specific activity you already have in mind, you can search for it by title.  Our content library is ever-expanding and new content is added weekly!

[#explore]Exploring and Playing Content[#explore]

Once you’ve found the right piece of content for your client, it’s easy to get started. Each content card includes a content type, title, short description, and a play button. To jump straight into the game or activity, simply press Play.

If you’d like more details before starting, click More to open the content page. Here, you’ll find a longer description, therapeutic themes and tags, and the recommended age range. You’ll also see related resources that can supplement the activity. From this page, you can start the game anytime by clicking Play.

[#pinning]Pinning Content[#pinning]

Pinning is a useful feature that helps you quickly access content and makes session planning easier. Every piece of content in your client’s library can be pinned directly to their profile. To pin an item, simply look for the pin icon on the library page and click it. The icon will change, confirming that the resource has been pinned.

To view all the content you’ve pinned for a specific client, click View Pinned Content. This will display everything you’ve saved for easy access during sessions.  You can also pin content from within the content page itself. Just click More to open the content, then select the pin icon to add it to your client’s profile. 

[#gameplay]Gameplay Features and Tools[#gameplay]

Before playing a game with a client, we recommend exploring it on your own to become familiar with how it works. Once you enter a game, there are a few key features to notice.First, every piece of content includes an “Info for Providers” dropdown. This is a private window that only you can see when using two-player mode with your client. Inside, you’ll find activity details, discussion questions, related resources, and pinned content—allowing you to seamlessly transition to another activity. To close this window, simply click the red arrow at the top.On the right side, you’ll see a sidebar with additional features. Here, you can start two-player mode with your client. Depending on the game, you may also see:-A Clear All button to reset progress.-A Download button to save a PDF of the activity.  This is helpful if you'd like to send the PDF virtually to a caregiver or upload it to the client's file in your EHR.-Audio controls to adjust the volume or mute sounds.Take some time to explore these features so you can guide your client through the best experience possible!  

[#player2]Using 2-Player[#player2]

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2-Player is a feature that allows you and your client to play games in real time from separate devices, either a computer or a tablet.  Hopscotch Play does not currently support phones.

You’ll find the 2-Player widget throughout your client’s profile, making it easy to start a connection from anywhere. To begin, click the Play button on the widget, then select “Copy Link.” When the text changes to “Copied,” the link has been saved to your clipboard and is ready to be shared with your client.

When your client clicks the link on their device, both of you will be prompted to start 2-Player. Once they join, you'll receive a visual and auditory notification, and you’ll see that they are online. From this point, all interactions—drawing, typing, moving objects, and other gameplay actions—will stay in sync for both users.

In 2-Player, some features are only visible to you and will not be seen by your client. This includes the content filters on the main menu, the Info for Providers window, and certain toolbar options.

Important Notes for 2-Player:

-Minimizing the Hopscotch Play window or switching browser tabs on either end will temporarily pause the connection. Once the window is maximized, you both will be prompted to resume gameplay.

-Exiting your client’s profile at any time will end the session. If you leave, you will need to generate a new link for your client to reconnect. However, as long as you remain in the profile, the same link will stay active—even if your client disconnects.

-To manually end a 2-Player session, click the “End 2-Player” button. This will remove your client from the session.

If you experience any issues while using 2-Player, help is always just a click away. Use the Help icon to submit a support ticket, and include detailed comments or screenshots for faster troubleshooting.

[#support]Contacting Support[#support]

Help is always just a click away. If you run into any issues while using Hopscotch Play, the quickest way to get support is by clicking the Help icon, located at the bottom right corner of every screen. This opens a support ticket window. You can start by browsing the Help Library to see if your question is already answered. If not, you can continue by filling out a ticket. Simply choose a category from the dropdown menu and describe your issue or question in as much detail as possible. The more information you provide, the faster we can help! Screenshots are also really helpful. To include one, just click the camera icon and it will automatically attach a screenshot of your browser to the ticket. Once you're ready, hit submit to send it to our support team.

Our tech support team is always here for you. If you’d prefer to talk things through, you can schedule a 15-minute support call. Just click the link, pick a date and time that works for you, and we’ll take care of the rest. We want to make sure Hopscotch Play is running smoothly, so don’t hesitate to reach out!

Psychoeducational Learning for Kids

About

Description: The Exploring with Ella series is designed to support social-emotional learning for children ages 4-10. Each activity is character-led and narrated by Ella, with engaging character illustrations that help children feel connected to the learning process. Through a combination of engaging narratives, Ella guides children in exploring topics such as conflict resolution, self-esteem, anxiety, anger, and more!

The activities are accompanied by supplementary materials found in the Related Resources section, which provide additional flexibility for use during sessions. These activities are adaptable and can be paced according to the clinician and client’s needs, whether in an individual, group, or classroom setting. Each activity also includes built-in discussion questions to promote deeper conversations and insight, making the series an effective tool for helping children develop emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.

Ages: 4-10

How to Use

The Exploring with Ella series is flexible and can be used in a variety of settings.

Individual Setting
In one-on-one settings, the Exploring with Ella series can help introduce and teach kids about a variety of social-emotional topics related to their presenting concern.  With each activity, you're able to explore definitions, dive deeper about the impact of the issue, allow clients to personalize and share examples, and discuss helpful coping mechanisms collaboratively.  

The built-in discussion questions and prompts provide guidance in facilitating conversations and encouraging the child to reflect on their own experiences. Supplementary materials can be used to reinforce key concepts between sessions, or as additional resources to work on skills at the child’s own pace.

Group Settings

Exploring with Ella is perfect for small group settings, encouraging children to work collaboratively on themes like social skills and conflict resolution. The series promotes peer interaction, allowing children to share their own experiences and insights, while practicing empathy, active listening, and compromise. The group setting also helps normalize emotions, making it easier for children to relate to one another.

Start with the presentation as a group, allowing Ella’s story to introduce the topic. Facilitate group discussions using the provided questions to prompt each child to share their perspective. Activities can be adapted for partner work or group participation, helping children practice the skills they are learning in real-time. Supplementary materials can be used for extended group activities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to engage fully with the topic.

Classroom Guidance Setting

In a classroom environment, Exploring with Ella can be used to incorporate social-emotional learning into a curriculum. The series is an effective tool for teaching children how to manage their emotions, work through conflicts, and build healthy self-esteem. It also supports a positive classroom culture by encouraging kindness, cooperation, and respect among students.

These activities can be used as part of a daily or weekly schedule, using the stories and activities to address social-emotional learning objectives. It can be adapted for individual, partner, or class-wide participation. Built-in discussion questions can guide class discussions, while supplementary materials provide additional tools for reinforcing the lessons outside of the designated lesson time.

Flexible, Engaging, and Effective: The Exploring with Ella series is designed to be versatile and easily integrated into various therapeutic or educational settings. With its built-in activities, discussion prompts, and supplementary materials, this series ensures that providers can address a range of emotional and social issues with children in a meaningful way, at their own pace. Whether used in an individual session, small group, or classroom, Exploring with Ella provides a strong foundation for helping kids develop the emotional skills they need for life.

About

Description: A simple but fun fast paced game where the players take turns to see who can drop in a row of four coins first.  Hopscotch Connect offers a great way for kids to develop their cognitive skills, social abilities, and emotional control. As children strategize to connect four pieces in a row, they enhance their planning, problem-solving, and critical thinking. This interactive game also encourages turn-taking, patience, and good sportsmanship, making it a fantastic tool for building social skills and cooperative play. 

Ages: 4-11

Themes: Competitive play, Social skills, Problem-solving, Self-management, Resilience, Executive functioning

Using Hopscotch Connect

Explain the game to the client, highlighting the goal of connecting four pieces in a row. Emphasize that it’s about having fun and practicing thinking skills.

Choosing a Color and Who Goes First

Gameplay

To take a turn, hover the coin over the column you would like to drop it into.  When you're ready to play, simply click, and it will drop it into that column.  Take turns dropping the coins into the rows and columns and try to get 4 in a row either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.  The first player to do so wins.  You can work on these skills during gameplay:

 As you continue playing, the game will keep track of win totals. Once you leave the game and return, the win totals will refresh and start anew. 

About

Description: Sammie, a scout, guides kids through 12 different breathing activities, including butterfly breathing, bunny breathing, rainbow breathing, star breathing, and lion breathing. Each video teaches a breathing technique, followed by practice sessions with the kids. After completing each video, kids earn a badge, making the learning process engaging and rewarding. These videos aim to help children manage stress, improve focus, and enhance their emotional regulation through fun and interactive breathing exercises.

Using Sammie's Breathing Videos in Session

Therapists can use Sammie's Breathing Videos as a tool to teach children effective relaxation techniques. Start sessions by selecting a video and practicing the breathing exercise together. Discuss how the child feels before and after the exercise to help them recognize the calming effects. Encourage children to use these techniques during stressful moments in their daily lives. Additionally, earning badges can be a motivational tool, reinforcing positive behavior and making the practice enjoyable. Use the videos to introduce mindfulness and create a routine that children can follow both in and out of therapy sessions.

Related Resources:
In the Hopscotch Play Print section, you will find badge PDFs that correspond with each breathing video. These can be printed for the client to decorate after watching and mastering each breathing technique.

About

Description: Calm Coloring is a therapeutic art board designed to support children's emotional well-being through mindfulness and creative expression. The game provides a blank art board where children can draw freely or utilize art therapy prompts that encourage exploration of feelings, family dynamics, personal history, and more. Accompanied by a playlist of relaxing music, Calm Coloring offers a calming environment for children to unwind and manage stress.  Calm Coloring also shows kids that coloring and creative can be an effective coping strategy.  For those using it as such, Grant, a supportive animated buddy appears with the tap of a button to provide encouragement and positive reinforcement during coloring sessions. 

Calm Coloring offers a range of benefits for children's mental and emotional development. By engaging in creative activities like drawing and using art prompts, children can express their emotions in a safe and supportive space. The integration of relaxation music promotes a sense of calmness and aids in stress reduction. Therapists can use Calm Coloring to teach coping skills and enhance emotional awareness.

Ages: 4-8

Themes: Expressive art, Emotinal Regulation, Mindfulness, Coping strategies, Self Management

Using Calm Coloring in Session

Calm Coloring has a wide range of uses in therapy.  You can use this activity how you might typically use a Whiteboard or doodle pad in sessions with young clients, while also still being able to incorporate the therapeutic tools that are offered during the game. 

Question Button
The Question Button when pressed triggers a prompt at the top of the canvas.  There are 100 pre-loaded questions and prompts that encourage clients to draw about their experiences, family dynamics, friendships, feelings, and more! 

Examples include:-What is something you wish for?
-Can you create a picture of your favorite dream?
-What does it look like when you feel lonely?
-Draw a picture of something that makes you feel calm. 
-What is your favorite coping skill?
-Draw a picture of what your family looks like when you’re all together.

Music Playlist

To create a calming atmosphere, clients can browse through a collection of relaxation music.

Grant Pop Up

Coloring and creativity can also be an effective coping mechanism for kids.  Calm Coloring includes a Grant button where he pops onto the screen with some encouraging and affirming words.  Clients can use this to hear 15 supportive statements as their coloring to calm down. 

Related Resources

In the Hopscotch Play Print section, you will find a PDF titled Calm Coloring Pages, a collection of coloring pages that can be printed and used by the child as they wish.  This collection can be placed in a calm corner or in their room where they can access the pages as needed. Encourage the child to try to create a calming environment (with music, if they choose) as they color in the home.