Using Minecraft to Support Social Language
Working remotely with school-aged students presents unique challenges, especially when targeting social communication skills like conversational turn-taking and perspective-taking. One effective strategy I’ve used as a remote Speech-Language Pathologist is leveraging Minecraft Creative Mode as a shared virtual activity combined with structured peer prompts and social visuals.
Why Minecraft Creative Mode?
Minecraft Creative Mode provides an open, engaging, and visually rich environment where students can collaborate, build, and interact. Because it removes the pressure of game survival mechanics, it allows students to focus on talking and cooperating. This natural context encourages meaningful communication opportunities, which is perfect for practicing social skills remotely.
Step 1: Set Up a Shared Activity in Minecraft Creative Mode
Create a private Minecraft world for your therapy session or use a shared multiplayer server where invited students can join.
Before the session, familiarize yourself with the basics of building and navigation to guide students effectively.
Encourage students to build something together, such as a structure, town, or project that requires collaboration.
Step 2: Design Structured Peer Prompts
To support turn-taking and perspective-taking, structure specific social prompts that guide student interactions during the Minecraft session.
“Ask before you build”
Encourage students to pause before adding to the shared structure and ask a peer if it’s okay to add something. This reinforces the skill of initiating conversation and respecting others’ contributions.“Comment after a friend speaks”
Teach students to respond or comment after a peer makes a statement or suggestion. This models appropriate conversational turns and demonstrates understanding.
Use these prompts consistently throughout the session, briefly reminding students as needed.
Step 3: Incorporate Social Visuals
Visual supports enhance understanding and retention of social skills, especially in virtual settings.
Prepare simple visual cue cards or digital slides with key prompts, such as:
“Ask before you build!”
“Listen and respond!”
“Take turns talking.”
“Think about what your friend wants.”
Share these visuals during screen sharing or send them to students beforehand. Reference the visuals during the session to gently redirect or prompt student behavior without interrupting the flow.
Additional Tips
Model turn-taking by demonstrating “asking before you build” or commenting first if appropriate. Students often learn best by example.
Work in pairs or smaller groups to keep the interactions manageable and give each student more chances to practice.
Debrief after the Minecraft session by discussing what went well and what could improve regarding conversational skills. Reflection helps solidify learning.
So, in conclusion…
Using Minecraft Creative Mode along with structured prompts and social visuals can turn virtual speech therapy sessions into dynamic and fun practice opportunities for conversational turn-taking and perspective-taking.
This approach not only builds essential social skills but also keeps students engaged and motivated in the remote learning environment. Give it a try in your next session and watch your students thrive!
