Fortunately / unfortunately

This classic improv game also encourages kids to look on the bright side and problem-solve, but in a silly and creative way! It’s perfect for playing anywhere, anytime, no props required, and you can play with as many people as you want.

How to Play:

• One person starts with an “unfortunate” statement, like “Unfortunately, I slipped on a banana peel.”
• The next player follows with a “fortunate” twist, like “Fortunately, I landed on a nice, soft cushion that just so happened to be on the floor.”
• Then the next player switches back to “unfortunately,” i.e. “Unfortunately, the cushion was covered in fire ants and they started biting my bottom!” Continue until the “story” naturally comes to an end (ideally on a “Fortunately!”)

The story can be as outrageous and ridiculous as you want, or it can even be a playful way to process real-life events, i.e. after a long, tricky day.

For younger children, you can also adapt the game to be “Good News! / Bad News!” or “Yay! / “Oh no!” They may need the game modeled several time before they grasp the concept.

Not only does this game encourage creativity, gratitude, and problem-solving, but it also enhances collaboration as you listen to and work off of each other’s ideas, often leading to big belly laughs and connection.