Growing Sideways:
A Conversational Card Game
Building Connection Through Conversation
Talking about bodies, boundaries, relationships, and growing up can feel awkward—for both kids and the adults who care about them. But the truth is, both want to have these conversations. Growing Sideways was created to take the pressure off and the awkwardness away so meaningful conversations can flow through fun and engaging gameplay.
What is it?
Growing Sideways is a conversation card game that helps youth and trusted adults explore real-life topics in a way that feels natural, approachable, and even fun. Players roll a dice to select a card from one of five topics: values and decision-making, consent and boundaries, bodies and changes, healthy relationships and real-life pressures. As they react to the prompts, they open a natural dialogue about their feelings and experiences without any pressure to say the “right” thing. Interactive gameplay elements.
Who can play?
Growing Sideways was designed for youth ages 10–13 and parents, caregivers, grandparents, guardians, older siblings, mentors or any other trusted adults a young person feels safe talking to. This game is designed to be age-appropriate, safe, and aligned with national sexual health education guidelines.
Does it work?
Growing Sideways has been developed through a human-centered design process shaped directly by the youth and family it is designed to serve. Over years of testing and development we’ve heard how Growing Sideways creates a fun, safe space to talk about issues that can feel heavy. It encourages connections without focusing on perfection. Players have the space to think out loud and consider other perspectives without feeling lectured or tested. For families who’ve played, the experience has built trust and opened conversations that continue long after the game ends. As time goes on, Growing Sideways will continue to grow and evolve.
Is it fun?
Of course! We’ve developed Growing Sideways utilizing feedback from dozens of real families who’ve played it and incorporated interactive elements that keep the game fun and engaging for everyone. Players may be asked to act out prompts, involve the whole group or even steal points. These features keep gameplay exciting while still supporting meaningful conversation.
Ready to play?
The newest version of Growing Sideways is out now. Get yours today!
Growing Sideways launches soon!
Join our early access list and be the first to know when it’s available.