Building bonds through gaming

July 30, 2026 - 00:46

A University of Miami alumnus and child therapist named Justin Jacobson has developed a Roblox game designed to help kids and parents connect. The project recently won an international award, highlighting the potential of video games as tools for family therapy rather than just entertainment.

Jacobson, who works as a licensed therapist, noticed a gap in how families interact with digital media. Many parents struggle to engage with their children's online worlds, often viewing gaming as a solitary or isolating activity. To bridge this divide, he created a game within the popular Roblox platform that encourages cooperative play and communication between parent and child.

The game focuses on shared problem-solving and emotional expression. Instead of competitive mechanics, it offers scenarios where both players must work together to achieve goals, fostering dialogue and teamwork. Jacobson drew on his clinical experience to design challenges that naturally prompt conversations about feelings, patience, and mutual support.

The award recognizes the game's innovative approach to mental health. Judges praised it for turning a common source of household tension into a bonding opportunity. Jacobson hopes the recognition will encourage more therapists and developers to consider gaming as a legitimate space for therapeutic intervention. For families, the message is simple: playing together can be a powerful way to build trust and understanding, even in a virtual world.