DIY Programming Ideas: Dungeons and Dragons

DIY Programming Ideas: Dungeons and Dragons

The role-playing game “Dungeons and Dragons” is having a renaissance!  I played in the late 1970’s which shows how long this game has been around. Many younger people may have first heard of the game when the characters on TV’s “Big Bang Theory” played it regularly.

     Recently, School Library Journal suggested books for tween “Dungeons and Dragons” fans: 9 Middle Grade and YA Books Featuring Dungeons & Dragons | School Library Journal (slj.com). Use these titles for a display at your event.

     There may be a D&D club at your local high school. They could be great volunteers for the event, especially leading a simplified version of the game for younger children. Also, check out this site for a beginners guide to D&D: Beginners Guide to Dungeons and Dragons : 10 Steps – Instructables.

Icebreaker

     Show scenes from the classic TV show “Freaks and Geeks” where characters play D&D: Freaks and Geeks Play Dungeons and Dragons (youtube.com) or Freaks And Geeks- Daniel Plays Dungeons & Dragons With Geeks (youtube.com)

Games

1. Dungeons & Dragons puzzles: Amazon.com: Dungeons & Dragons, Build and Explore Adventure Puzzle, DND Adult Puzzles, Dungeons and Dragons 1000 Piece Puzzles for Adults and Kids Ages 12+ : Toys & Games.
2. D&D Monopoly: Amazon.com: Hasbro Gaming Monopoly Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves Game, Inspired by The D&D Movie, Monopoly D&D Board Game for 2-5 Players, Ages 8 and Up : Toys & Games.
3. Family Friendly D&D Versions: Family Friendly Dungeons & Dragons Modules (part 1) – DMing Dad.
4. D&D Bingo printables: Dungeons & Dragons Bingo: Printable & Customizable – Bingo Card Creator.

Crafts

1. Make these dragon eggs out of plastic Easter eggs: How To Make a Small Dragon Egg (craftyourhappiness.com).
2. Fantasy Map Candles: Fantasy Map Luminaries : 6 Steps (with Pictures) – Instructables.
3. Dice Jail made with cardboard, golf tees, and hot glue: The Shame Station – gaming post – Imgur.
4. Dice bags: D & D Dice Bag : 5 Steps (with Pictures) – Instructables.

Refreshments

     Fitting the medieval theme, serve gingerbread men or oatmeal cookies and apple cider.

Penny Peck, San Jose State University iSchool