Character Sheets and Character Growth: Kids and D&D

Step into the world of Dungeons & Dragons and discover how this legendary game helps kids grow into confident, compassionate, and creative thinkers. As young adventurers battle monsters, solve enchanted puzzles, and roleplay as heroes, they naturally build math skills, emotional intelligence, collaboration, and resilience. This panel is perfect for educators, parents, therapists, and anyone curious about how fantasy roleplay can inspire real-world growth and why rolling dice might be one of the most powerful tools for learning.

Kari Dayhuff is an educator licensed in P-12 Special Education, K-6 Elementary Education, and 5-9 Language Arts. After first double majoring in Elementary and Special Education, she earned her Master's in Educational Leadership- School Supervision and Administration in 2018, and is currently pursuing her Educational Specialist degree in School Psychology. 

Dr. Francesca McCarthy is a licensed clinical psychologist. She earned her B.A. in Psychology and Sociology from Holy Cross College, her M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana State University, and her Doctor of Psychology from Wright State University.