How Do We Get People Onboard?

I have been lucky enough to have a very supportive community, and have not personally had to experience any pushback at all. Lots of students, parents and colleagues all love D&D, or have always wanted to try it!

Students - Many students are interested in RPGS. They may not think of themselves as D&D Geeks, but they love to pretend and try on different roles at this age. If you can foster a community where lots of different kids feel welcome at the table, this will NOT be an issue. Students are their own best advertisers through word of mouth.

However, to get started, I always do the direct recruiting method. I personally invite anyone I can think of who might enjoy it, especially the kids who like to bring everyone else along. If everyone is having fun, it will grow.

Parents and Admin

Here are several articles about why D&D ( and RPGs in general) are good for students. If you describe the club as being semi-structured social engagement for kids in many different social groups, collaboration, creativity and very inexpensive to run, this often gets the reaction you need. However, here are some articles as well.

Articles

RPGS and Social Skills

RPGS and Math

RPGS and STEM

RPGS and Critical Thinking

So, about that Satanic Panic Thing….

There are some people who still worry that D&D is the devil’s game. (This was a big deal in the early 1980s) Often it is the term Dungeons and Dragons that makes people upset, or they are worried about specific content. I have had students whose families are worried, and if I sit down and talk to them about what RPGS actually are, we have been able to come to an agreement. I am fine with not having demon content in my middle school games, or running Mouse Guard or Quest instead of D&D if that is what helps kids be able to come into the club.