Purpose: This study was to investigate the effects of a family nursing practicum using role play on emotional intelligence, communication ability, and family nursing performance of nursing students. Methods: Role play training was provided to nursing students who took a community health nursing practicum (family nursing practicum). During the course for 2 weeks, participants were given role play practice for four times and a final test using role play at the end of the course. Data were collected from 52 nursing students before and after the family nurse practicum who agreed to participate in this study. Results: The scores of emotional intelligence, communication ability, and family nursing performance at post test were enhanced significantly compared to the scores at pre test. Conclusion: Nursing educators in family nursing can consider role play to improve emotional intelligence and communication ability as well as family nursing performance.