Artistic or Dixit Cards

Topic: Family & Home

Emotional Intensity: MEDIUM

Format: Supporting exercise

Source / Author: Based on practices developed by Migration Aid and adapted through workshops and festivals in diverse contexts.

Topic

Family & Home

Also relevant for

Emotional expression, Belonging, Well-being, Identity

Objective (learning focus)

To provide participants with a safe and creative way to explore personal meanings of family and home through metaphors and visual symbols, supporting self-expression without pressure to verbalize difficult experiences.

Target group

Youth (14–18) / Young adults (18–30)

Group size

4–15 participants

Timing

40–60 minutes

Materials Needed

Dixit cards or similar metaphorical / associative image cards, table or flat surface (or floor space)

Optional: paper and pens for notes or reflections

Step-by-step guide:

Setting the space (5–10 min)
Invite participants to sit comfortably in a circle around the cards.
Briefly explain that the exercise uses images and metaphors — there are no right or wrong interpretations. Emphasize voluntariness: sharing is always optional.
Introducing the concepts (5 min)
The facilitator introduces pre-selected, neutral or resource-oriented concepts, for example: home, family, safety, belonging, support, place of strength, connection, memory. Explain why these concepts are chosen and inform participants that they may skip or change a concept if they feel uncomfortable.
Card selection (5 min)
Participants choose one or more cards that represent what the given concept means to them. Allow a few quiet minutes for reflection.
Sharing (15–25 min)
Participants who wish to share briefly present their card(s) and associations. Encourage attentive listening. The facilitator ensures a non-judgmental atmosphere and does not interpret participants’ stories.
Closing & integration (5–10 min)
Invite a short reflection, for example:
What felt supportive for you in this exercise?
What do you want to take with you from this reflection?

End with a brief grounding moment (e.g. noticing feet on the floor, one calm breath).

Expected outcomes (for participants)

Easier expression of feelings through non-verbal means
Increased sense of safety, connection, and belonging
Reduced anxiety when discussing personal topics
Validation of diverse experiences and perspectives

Trauma-informed note:

Avoid random assignment of potentially heavy or triggering concepts
Use neutral or strength-based concepts by default
Explain the purpose and sensitivity of the exercise in advance
Participation and sharing are always voluntary
Be attentive to emotional reactions and offer grounding if needed

Adaptation (context / intercultural / age)

Suitable for different ages and cultural contexts

Concepts can be adapted to group needs or session focus. From previous implementations we deduced that it works better in smaller groups (n=5), sharing was deeper and more introspective. In larger groups (n=12), energy levels increased and symbolic overlap highlighted shared collective concerns.

For experienced facilitators and well-established groups, deeper concepts may be introduced cautiously

Recommendations for facilitators

Model openness and calm presence
Avoid generalizations or comparisons of experiences
Validate different stories without interpretation or correction
Ensure a clear closing to support emotional integration