Start a D&D Group

What can we use if we don't have items from the Materials Needed list like dice or printed character sheets?

If you don't have dice or printed character sheets from the Materials Needed list, use coins or numbered paper slips as dice, write simple character sheets on lined paper, and use any blank paper on the table for the GM's map.

What should we do if the group can't agree on the three simple rules or the GM gets stuck writing the one-sentence adventure hook?

If players can't agree on the three simple rules or the GM stalls on the one-sentence adventure hook, use a quick default rule set (be respectful, take turns, help others) and have the GM write a prompt-style hook like 'A farmer's child has disappeared — find them before sunset' so play can start.

How can we adapt the activity for younger or older kids when picking roles and writing strengths/weaknesses and challenges?

For younger kids let each player pick a character name and role from a short picture list and have the GM write single-step challenges, while older kids should write their own strength and weakness and tackle the GM's two-step puzzles the GM writes.

How can we extend or personalize the session after playing the first D&D adventure and creating characters?

To extend the activity, have the GM add more locations to the paper map, ask players to draw and decorate their character sheets and props, expand the GM's one-sentence hook into a multi-session campaign, and then share the expanded adventure and character creations on DIY.org.