As part of a human-centered design project, I conducted research in the different facets and methods of communication. During this research, I uncovered several resources on how today’s communication tools and systems, such as cell phones and social media, affect relationships. I kept digging as I was curious if the way we engage and the quality of that engagement today has changed for the better or worse with the rise of technology. I narrowed my focus to childhood development and family dynamic, and examined areas in which communication could be improved. I discovered research on the physical, mental and emotional benefits of family dinners and a growing amount of articles and organizations promoting and supporting the activity. I decided to build a tool that can assist in improving engagement and fostering community among families at the dinner table.

I chose a card game as it does not use technology and can be easily incorporated into the dining area. The game incorporates four types of cards: Icebreaker, Challenge, Game Time, and Categories. An Icebreaker card includes a question for deeper and more meaningful conversation among the family. The person who drew the card picks who must answer the card. The questions range from fun and thought-provoking topics to serious and personal topics. The Challenge cards includes a different action that the person who drew the card must perform. The Game Time card includes a game that all players must participate in. Every game will be playable at the table. Finally, the Categories card includes two different topics and is played by all players. The player who drew the card picks the topic and starts off the game by naming a person, place or thing that fits the chosen topic. Each player must name a person, place or thing that fits the chosen topic. Play begins with the player who drew the card and continues clockwise. The first player to repeat an answer or not answer after 5 seconds loses and ends the round.