The idea of this role playing game was born during our Covid-19 lockdown period. David and I were celebrating our 23rd anniversary and we wanted to have a special evening. In normal times we would have organised a babysitter and gone out for a romantic meal. However, during this time all restaurants were closed to dine in. Takeaways were available though, so we decided to settle for that option.
The Jai Jai Indian Restaurant Role Playing Game
First the plan was to just set a stylish dining table to create some restaurant atmosphere and order a take away from our local Indian restaurant. Then Dave had the glorious idea that Ayla & Kyra could be our waitresses for the evening. Of course the girls were immediately all up for it. This is exactly the type of role playing game they adore, even more so when adults are involved.
We decided to make everything as authentic as possible. We fed all the kids early (normally we eat as a family) and took the two youngest to bed. Then we dressed up and set the table in style. The girls added a home-made table number and typed up a very funny menu. They dressed as waitresses. Some black skirts and white tops had to do since we didn’t have any traditional Indian clothes. Next time we might try to get hold of some as this would certainly make a great addition to the event.
Whilst we were dining we set up a calling system to the girl’s room. So the girls didn’t have to hang around the dining room but could chill out in their own space. We only called them when it was time for the next course to be served or the wine glasses to be refilled.
It made our dining experience really special to be served instead of having to keep getting up and running to the kitchen all the time. The girls had a great time too. Kids love anything that is special and different to the norm. Most of all they love any type of role playing game.
Obviously we were asked afterwards if we could repeat the game with reversed roles some time.
Of course there was no way we could possibly refuse.
Chinese Restaurant for Kids
We all dressed up again and typed out some more funny menus. This time for a Chinese Restaurant, because the kids love their Chinese food. Dave took on the role of the waiter and I was the cook.
It was very funny how committed the kids were to this game. I was expecting them to be silly at the table, hyped up by the excitement of it all. Instead they were often sitting there with a very serious expression, almost a bit nervous of their crazy Chinese waiter.
The highlight was a traditional Chinese dance performed by the same waiter, much to the delight of the dinner guests.
