What this game is
Truth Filter shows a statement someone might say (or you might think). The player sorts it into one of three buckets: Fact Check, Opinion, or Identity Hook. The goal is not to argue with feelings—it's to notice what kind of statement it is, and choose a calmer next move.
Play the game
Open the game and try a few rounds together—or solo.
Game link coming soon.
Want to create your own cards? Start here
How to play
- Read the statement on the screen.
- Sort it into one category:
- Fact Check (checkable / verifiable)
- Opinion (someone's taste or judgment)
- Identity Hook (a label that tries to define who you are)
- Read the short explanation.
- Choose (or repeat) a "Shield Line" to unhook from shame.
- Play a few rounds. Stop early on purpose if you want—one round still counts.
Passing is allowed. Kids can always skip a statement.
Gentle prompts to try
- Is that a fact, an opinion, or a hook?
- Do we want to check it, ignore it, or release it?
- What part felt stingy—what did it hook into?
- Which shield line helps your brain right now?
- What's one calm next step?
Why it helps
It separates words from truth
When kids hear something hurtful, the brain often treats it as fact. Sorting creates a pause and reduces automatic belief. By naming whether a statement is a fact, an opinion, or a hook, children learn that words don't have to become their identity—they can choose how to respond instead of reacting from shame or defensiveness.
It protects identity during a sensitive age (10–13)
Peer judgment is louder at this age, and identity can feel fragile. Kids at this stage are figuring out who they are, and external labels can stick in ways that feel permanent. Truth Filter teaches them to notice when someone's words are trying to define them, and gives them tools to protect their sense of self without shutting down or fighting back.
It turns shame spirals into choices
The game follows a simple loop: notice the statement, name the hook, choose a shield line, decide on a next step. This structure interrupts the shame spiral that often follows hurtful comments. Instead of spiraling into "they're right, I am that," kids learn a calm pattern: "That's a hook. I can release it. Here's what I'll do next."
It keeps feedback useful (without making it personal)
Kids can keep specific, helpful feedback ("Your essay needs a clearer thesis") and release vague identity labels ("You're bad at writing"). Learning to sort statements this way helps them stay open to growth without internalizing shame. They can ask themselves: Is this something I can act on, or is this just noise?
The "Blue Hair" insight
If someone says "You have blue hair" and you don't, it doesn't sting—because there's no internal hook. But if they say something that matches a fear you already carry, it feels true. This game teaches kids to notice the difference: statements sting more when they match a fear, not just because they were said. That awareness alone reduces their power.
Who this is for
Families
- After-school social stress
- Group chats / online comments
- Self-talk that turns mean
Educators / counselors
- Small group resilience practice
- Preteen peer conflict support
- Quick SEL warm-up
Frequently asked questions
Is there a right answer?
No. The categories are teaching tools, not tests. Some statements could fit multiple buckets depending on context. The goal is to practice pausing and thinking about what kind of statement it is—not to get it "correct." If a child sorts differently than you would, that's a conversation starter, not a mistake.
What if a statement feels too personal?
Kids can skip any statement. The game is designed to be practiced with common scenarios, not to force kids to process real trauma in the moment. If a statement hits too close, passing is always an option. You can also pause and talk about why it felt hard, or come back to it later if they want.
Do kids have to explain their insecurities?
No. The game asks them to notice what hooked them, but they don't have to share it out loud. Private awareness is still progress. Some kids will want to talk, others won't. Both are fine. The skill is in noticing, not performing vulnerability.
What if my child won't talk?
That's okay. You can play the game solo or in parallel—each of you sorting statements without needing to explain your choices. Sometimes kids process internally and apply the skills later without ever naming what they learned. Trust that the practice itself is building resilience, even if you don't see immediate conversation.
Is this therapy?
No. This is an educational tool designed to support social-emotional learning through play. It is not therapy, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have concerns about your child's wellbeing, please consult a qualified professional.
Empathy Kids is an educational tool designed to support social-emotional learning through play. It is not therapy, diagnosis, or medical advice. If you have concerns about your child's wellbeing, please consult a qualified professional.
Image placeholders (optional)
- Sorting screen: Fact / Opinion / Identity Hook
- Shield line example
- Round recap screen