Teens learn about dating game

A KWAZULU-NATAL woman has created a dating board game for teenagers.

Janice Massyn‚ a nurse from Pietermaritzburg‚ created the Viva Dating Game‚ using the snakes and ladders concept with players racing to the finish.

The game, which is being piloted at schools in KwaZulu-Natal‚ is about helping the youth to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy relationships.

It is aimed at those over 12 and involves two to six players.

“Players have fun while developing their life skills through the game,” Massyn, who is in her final year of studies as a foundation phase teacher, said.

“The Viva Dating Game brings the outside real world into the classroom and home. For example if your partner is on drugs, how does that affect you and your relationship?

“And if you are drinking heavily how will that affect your friendships with your family and friends? The game covers social issues such as HIV and teenage pregnancy.”

Massyn said it was through her own experiences and interaction with friends and family that she decided to come up with a game.

“Many of the stories on my cards are based on real life,” she said.

“The board game reinforces book learning. It’s a fun‚ interactive board game to play at home and school with family or friends.

“Teachers and parents will find it a great ice-breaker because it will help them to bring up sensitive topics and to expand knowledge.

“The game promotes discussion and stimulates innovative thinking.

“Teachers and parents can use the board game to ask thought-provoking questions and promote interest in life skills.”