Fjios Espoi Sloir Lourn

Team Building Games 101
Team Building Games 101 is filled with experiential

learning activities you can lead now with little or no
advanced preparation. If props are required to
lead an activity, theyll be easy to find at local stores
and will require little, if any, preparation time. Here
youll find games for big and small groups, cerebral
and physical challenges, and activities lasting from
5 to 55 minutes. Every activity is designed to
creatively engage your group and provide openings
for important discussions to help your group become
a high performing team.
Willow in the Wind
https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=w2fBoJZd_eA&list=PLUxSAtylk96mcqUWFOehxpJAYzyKHGdt
H
Group Size: 10 15
Age Range: high school adult
Intensity: Mental=2, Physical=2
Time: 10 30 minutes (without debrief)
Space: Minimal Medium -- Lots
Set Up Time: 1 minute
Props: none
Objective
One person stands in the center of the circle and trusts her teammates.
Set Up / Preparation
1. Gather the group in a circle and discuss the importance of learning how to
spot team members safely. Make sure the group is ready for this activity.
2. Have the group form a circle (arms length from each other) and show the
group how to stand in a spotters stance - - one foot behind to add stability,
knees slightly bent, arms outstretched with palms facing forward and elbows
slightly bent.
3. Once everyone practices the spotters stance ask the group to step in and
make the circle smaller, shoulder to shoulder while assuming the spotters
stance.
4. You (the leader) will now step into the center of the circle and demonstrate
how to become the Willow in the Wind. Youll cross your arms across your
chest and place your feet together and then make your body stiff like a board.
5. Tell the group their job, as your spotters, is to gently catch your fall and then
gently push you (shove you) back to another part of the circle. Have the group
be close enough to you that they are gently touching you with their hands. As
comfort grows they can allow you to fall a greater distance.
6. Before you actually start falling into the group you (and all that follow you)
must first say the group Spotters ready? and the group says Ready!. You
then say Ready to fall! and the group says Were ready to catch you! - - and
then you fall into the group. If you continue on to the Trust Fall activity
(described elsewhere) you will use these same verbal commands so its good to
start practicing them now.
7. Once you determine the group has had enough practice (on you), ask for a
volunteer to come to the center and take your place (you take their place in the
circle). The person in the middle stays in for the length of time that is
comfortable for all involved.
Rules
1. Spotters must always have a foot behind and hands up when anyone is in the
center of the circle.
2. Only a serious and focused attitude is allowed when doing this activity.
Safety Warning
1. Its important to place people in the circle in such a way as to make the
strongest possible circle. Dont allow the smallest people to stand next to each
other because its possible for a large person in the center of the circle to fall
through if they are passed around to a side with several small people standing
next to each other.
2. Be sensitive and aware of participants who dont want to try standing in the
center of the circle. They may not like all the touching involved in this activity.
Allow people to participate at the level that feels most comfortable to them.
Comments
1. This activity makes a good lead up activity to more demanding trust activities
like the Trust Fall or Mouse Trap Trust.
2. Be aware of the potential impact touch may have on some in your group.
Some populations may take advantage of the situation and attempt to touch or
grab areas of the body that are inappropriate to do so. Others may be fearful of
being surrounded by a group of people.
3. This activity has been led with at least half the population on the earth (at
least it seems that way sometimes!). If some people in your group report
having done that already, they may be the ones that will take this activity less
seriously and may adversely affect the mode of the group. Whether youve
done this activity or not, it is a great one to experience trust, so lets do it right.
Debriefing Suggestions
Who are the people you surround yourself with in your life (at home, work,
etc.)? On a scale of 1 to 10, what level do you trust them? What level do they
trust you?
Variations
1. The person in the center can close their eyes.
2. Trying doing this activity with complete silence.
History
I learned this game from master team builder Betsy Hipple.
Welded Feet
https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=nZKQLe4mC_c&list=PLUxSAtylk96mcqUWFOehxpJAYzyKHGdtH
Group Size 6 30
Age Range: Elementary adult
Time: 15 30 minutes
Space: Minimal Medium Lots
Set Up Time: 60 seconds
Props: none
Objective
As a team, walk from one point to another acting as if your feet are welded
together.
1. Create a start line and a finish line. Get the team to line up behind the start
line, standing shoulder to shoulder.
2. Everyone needs to slide their feet close enough to the person next to them so
that the sides of their feet are touching.
Rules
1. While crossing from point A to point B, everyone must have their feet
welded to (stuck to the side of) the person next to them. The people at the
ends of the lines only have one foot welded.
2. If anyones feet become un-welded (un-connected) during the walk, the entire
group must start all over.
Safety Warning
Some groups become so committed to keeping their feet welded together they
end up falling over! Tell the group to avoid falling over as its not worth risking
injury.
Comments
This is a great activity to lead when working with a group that needs to explore
moving ahead as one. The group in the video makes this look easy but most
groups I work with have difficulty with this activity.
Debriefing
I like to use this activity to lead into discussions about coordination of efforts
over a sustained period. Its one thing to coordinate efforts for a short time but
its a rare team that can sustain it. Because there are many opportunities for
the group to cheat (not announce a foot un-welding) I often weave in a
discussion about integrity and how one persons integrity can effect the entire
team (positively and negatively).
Quote
Of all the things I have done, the most vital is coordinating the talents of those
who work for us and pointing them towards a certain goal.
-- Walt Disney
Variations
The larger the group trying to coordinate efforts, the harder the challenge.
Consider starting a large group off by working in small teams (4-6 people) and
then making larger and larger teams.
History
I learned this activity from master team builder Viva Pizer.
WARP SPEED
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXGIdQudbk
Group Size: 10 20
Age Range: middle school adult
Space: Minimal Medium-- Lots
Props: four tennis balls and one digital stopwatch
Objective
Pass the four balls through the sequence as quickly and efficiently as possible.
1. The group circles up (include yourself in the circle).
2. Using one of the tennis balls establish the official sequence that will be used
throughout the game. To establish this sequence announce to the group that
you need to establish a sequence and to do so you will toss the ball to someone
across the circle. Before throwing, announce this persons name to give them a
warning. This person tosses the ball to someone else (other than you) across
from them. You can only receive and toss the ball one time and you can toss it
to someone next to yourself. A simple way to keep track of who has yet to
receive the ball is to ask everyone to hold their hands out in front of them
(catching fashion) and once they catch the ball they are to put their hands by
their sides. Once the last person in the group has received the ball, ask them to
toss it back to you (this completes the sequence).
3. Make sure the group has the sequence memorized by throwing the ball
through the sequence a second time.
4. Now, take yourself out of the circle and make the person you initially tossed
the ball to the first person (I will refer to this person as the Start/Stop Person).
The sequence now begins and ends with this person (instead of yourself).
Make sure the group understands this. Your job (as the facilitator) now shifts
into the roll of timekeeper.
5. Hand four balls to the Start/Stop Person. The balls are marked 1 4
(marking the balls is not critical).
6. Now tell the group the following: Your objective is to pass these four balls
through the sequence we just established as quickly and efficiently as possible.
7. You need to be crystal clear about how you tell the group the objective. Each
time the group asks you the objective you must repeat it the same way.
8. Allow the group to discuss how they are going to throw the balls quickly if
they want to. Otherwise, announce, On your mark, get set, GO!
9. Time stops once all four balls have made it back into the possession of the
Start/Stop Person. Share the time (this new record) with the group and ask
them if they can beat it. Ive never had a group say anything other than You
bet we can!
10. Allow the group multiple attempts. After each attempt, ask the group if they
can beat their previous time (i.e. set a new record).
11. You can end the activity when the group believes they have the fastest time
possible or supply them with an ending time (You have five minutes
remaining.).
Rules
1. The sequence must remain the same.
2. The sequence must include everyone.
3. All four balls must be passed through the sequence.
Comments
1. This is an activity I consider to be a classic which is both a good and bad
thing. Its good because its great for all the right reasons. Its bad because its
been done so much that its possible youre group has already done this activity
(though this has only happened to me one time in all my years of leading team
building games). With that said, I dont recommend using this activity as the
culminating activity of your program. All it takes is for one person in the group
to have done it and figured it out and the activity becomes a non-activity.
2. Now, back to the activity itself The group will undoubtedly figure out that
they need to rearrange themselves to speed the passing of the balls. Someone
in the group usually asks if this is OK (rearranging the group) - - and I respond
with You can do anything you want as long as you dont break the rules. Its
not uncommon for a group of 15 to have an initial time of 40 seconds and then,
after 8-10 different attempts, to have a final time of 2 or 3 seconds (or lower!).
1. Record the different attempts and the resulting times and share these with
the group during the debrief. Ask the group to identify the shifts that resulted
in a lower time and what brought those shifts about.
2. A sticking point your group might wrestle with is the interpretation of the
word pass when it comes to the stated objective of this activity (as in: PASS
the four balls through the sequence as quickly and efficiently as possible.).
Some people will interpret this word to mean touch (you must touch the ball)
while others will interpret it to mean the ball must simply travel past a team
member. I do not interpret the rule for the group even if they ask me for
clarification. This allows the group to determine how they want to collectively
interpret the rule. When a group wrestles with this issue I always (almost
always) bring this up in the debrief. I want to know how and why they came to
their decision. I often find that either way the group moves, there is always
someone who feels the decision was the wrong way to go and I want to
discover how the group feels about (works with) dissention.
3. When the situation is right, Ill ask the group to help me determine when its
good enough. Related to this is the issue of giving up, i.e. when is it time to
throw in the towel? This can be a very powerful conversation especially if you
have strong Type A personalities who are never satisfied.
4. This activity provides a great opportunity to see how the group manages
creativity and out of the box thinking. Is it encouraged? Is it squelched?
5. Ask the group to identify metaphorically what the tennis balls are
(represent) and what the passing of the tennis balls represents.
Quote
Almost all quality improvement comes via simplification.
-- Tom Peters.
Variations
1. Supply the group with a limited amount of time to complete the task
(example: 20 minutes).
2. Supply the group with a limited number of attempts to get the lowest time
possible (example: 10 attempts).
History
Warp Speed was written up in the classic games book by Karl Rohnke entitled
Cowstails and Cobras II published in 1989.
TRUST WAVE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=5x1F2y4RFTU&feature=player_embed
ded
Group Size: 20 30
Age Range: elementary to adult

Time: 5 10 minutes
Set Up Time: 5 minutes
Props: none
Objective
Run through a veritable sea of arms (and not get hit in the face!).
1. Divide the group in half and create two lines the lines should face each
other and be parallel. Ill refer to the people in the lines as spotters.
2. Have the spotters raise both arms so they are extended in front of them with
arms parallel to the ground in such a way as to barely touch the fingertips of the
person in front of them (in the opposite line).
3. You (the leader) will then demonstrate how to walk through the Trust Wave - Ill refer to you as the runner. Position yourself at least 20 feet from the end of
the two parallel lines. Announce that you will start walking at a rapid pace
through the center (and parallel) to the two lines. As you approach the
outstretched arms, the spotters are to lift their arms (like a draw bridge) out of
the way, just in time to avoid touching you. You are to keep a steady and even
pace during your walk through the Trust Wave.
4. After you successfully demonstrate how to walk through the Trust Wave, ask
for a volunteer from the group to be a runner (you take their space in the Trust
Wave line).
5. Give everyone a chance at being a runner.
Rules
Prior to someone walking through the Trust Wave, they must notify the group of
their intention to walk through the Trust Wave. The group must acknowledge
this person by saying, in unison, Were ready!
Safety Warning
1. Its unlikely someone will get seriously hurt in this activity; however, if the
group is indulging in horseplay you must stop the activity. Trust building
activities are not the time to fool around.
2. Those standing in the Trust Wave (the spotters) must carefully watch and
anticipate the person walking through the Wave otherwise someone will get hit
in the face.
Comments
1. I love this activity because its so effective in providing a trust building

experience while being easy to set up (requiring no props).
2. Ive successfully led this activity with large groups (200+) by first
demonstrating with 30 people (two lines of 15) and then having the large group
divide into smaller groups.
Trust is a two way street. The runner must trust that spotters will do their job
and the spotters must trust that the runner will do his/her job. What specific
strategies can you take to improve your relationship so that trust flows with
greater ease?
Quote
You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity
in each moment.
-- Henry David Thoreau
Variations
1. Once the group feels comfortable with someone who walks through, allow
(encourage) someone to jog or run through. The added speed will be
challenging for all involved.
2. And now for the that looks dangerous version: Slice and Dice Trust Wave - spotters move their arms up and down in a big random chopping motion.
When the runner looks down through the Trust Wave lines the typical reaction is
Im going to get hit! If the spotters do their job and anticipate the movement of
the runner, this is no more difficult or dangerous than the basic version.
History
I first learned this activity from the book Quicksilver by Karl Rohnke.
TRUST FALL
v=XSkMk7A9brY&feature=player_embed
ded
Group Size 15 20
Time: 45-60 minutes
Props: Articulated ladder or platform
Objective
Catch a team member who falls backwards into the arms of the group.
1. First of all, this is an advanced trust activity. Youve got to have the right
group to complete this activity with the least amount of risk. Make sure youre
group is ready for the challenge. Take this activity seriously (and remember to
have fun!).
2. Setup a 16 foot articulated ladder on a flat surface outdoors in the grass (no
rocks, sticks, etc.). Note: the articulated ladder is folded in half to look like an
8-foot stepladder. If you dont have an articulated ladder you can use a platform
of some kind. If you do the activity inside, you must place a mat on the ground
to help absorb someones fall should the group not catch them.
3. The Catchers: Have the team create two parallel lines with people facing
each other. These Catchers must stand shoulder to shoulder (no gaps).
Positioning in this line is important - - when the Faller falls, his/her torso will
create the greatest impact, which means the strongest Catchers should be
positioned in the area where the Fallers torso will land. Catchers who are
opposite each other must be of similar size and strength. Catchers must
remove watches, large rings, braceletsanything that could hurt the faller.
Catchers should rotate positions so everyone can get a chance in a new
catching location. The Catchers zip up their arms - - this means the Catchers
arms from side A are intermingled with the Catchers arms from side B. This
zipping action creates a basket effect and reduces the chances of an accidental
drop. Do not allow Catchers to grab each others wrists - - this will result in
injury! Catchers stand with one foot back to stabilize themselves and their arms
are bent at the elbow, palms facing up. Catchers must look at the Faller
throughout the activity.
4. The Faller: For the first Trust Fall, find someone who is eager to be the first
to go. Take it slow and steady as you prepare the Faller and the Catchers. This
slow and steady approach helps set the stage. Before the Faller is allowed to
climb the ladder, the Catchers must be ready to catch. Then the Coach (see
below) climbs the ladder and then, once everyone is ready, the Faller climbs the
ladder - - NOTE: the feet of the Faller must not be any higher than the arms of
the Catchers (usually no higher than 5 feet)! When the Faller falls, they must
remain stiff and rigid like a board. The hands and arms must be held in such a
way as to prevent them from hitting the Catchers - - to accomplish this, hands
can be placed in pockets or the Faller can give themselves a tight bear hug.
5. The Coach: Find a responsible person from the group to be the Coach who
will stand on the ladder with the Faller. The Coach stands on the ladder so
he/she is facing the Catchers and the Faller climbs the side of the ladder, which
puts his/her back to the catchers. Note: This is why I like to use an articulated
ladder, this type of ladder is strong enough to handle the weight of both the
Faller and the Coach. I also like using an articulated ladder because its highly
portable. The Coach must make sure the Catchers are ready and aligned
correctly and the Coach makes sure the Faller is ready to fall safely. While the
Faller is on the ladder, the Coach places one hand in the small of the Fallers
back to signal to the Faller that they are NOT clear to fall (yet).
6. Ladder Stabilizers: Two people stand on either side of the articulated ladder
to stabilize it. Throughout the activity the ladder spotters hold onto the ladder
with both hands to make sure it remains rock steady.
7. The SEQUENCE: When everything is ready and everyone is in place and
paying attention, the Faller initiates the falling sequence which is a verbal set
of commands:
Faller: Catchers ready?
Catchers: Ready!
Faller: Ready to fall!
Catchers: Fall away!
8. The Return: Once the group catches the Faller, they must return them safely
to the ground. It sounds silly, but its not uncommon for a group to successfully
catch someone and then, while celebrating their achievement, drop the faller on
the ground! Make sure the Faller is carefully placed on the ground (feet first)
after the catch is made.
Rules
See Setup / Preparation above.
Safety Warning
1. One way to know you should not try this activity with your group is if you dont
trust them enough to catch YOU.
2. Place yourself in the catching line so that you will be where the torso of the
Faller will hit. In the worst-case scenario, you will have to catch the Faller all by
yourself (or at least slow them down). After the group has made a couple of
successful catches you may decide to remove yourself from the catching line
and closely observe and coach the group.
3. DO NOT be the first person to fall. This is very dangerous. The group is
inexperienced and they need your guidance and coaching in the catching line.
If you want to fall (if the group wants you to fall) than do it towards the end.
4. The decision for a person to attempt this activity (to be a Faller) should be
made without coercion of any kind. Give people the opportunity and if they
should decide not to try it then allow them to help in other ways (hold the ladder,
catch, etc.).
Comments
1. There is a huge difference between talking about trust and experiencing
trust. This activity allows the group to experience trust as the faller and to
provide support and create a trusting environment.
2. As participants catch teammates, they develop team support, trust and caring
which creates a sense of team bonding. Camaraderie is developed as the team
successfully provides a human safety net for their teammates. The feeling of
providing for the success of a teammate (during their fall) is incredibly
rewarding.
1. This activity lends itself to discussions around the following topics: letting go,
trusting teammates, providing support, experiencing support, clear
communication.
2. I once led this activity with a group of female inmates. After everyone had
taken a turn the women asked me (the only male) to take a fall. I took them up
on their offer and they did a great job catching me. During the debrief session,
many of the women had a hard time believing I would trust them enough to fall.
They just werent used to being trusted in the prison environment. We had a
great discussion about trust - - trusting themselves, society, family, etc.
Quote
You cant blame gravity for falling in love.
-- Albert Einstein
Variations
1. If the group is not ready to start falling from the maximum height of five feet,
allow people to choose the level they want to fall from (another great reason to
use a ladder).
2. If the group is large (20+), only the people closest to the Faller will actually be
doing any catching. To engage the rest of the group, you can pass a Faller
down the line (after theyve fallen) to the end of the line where they are placed
(feet first) on the ground.
History
Karl Rohnke provided a description of this activity in his book Silver Bullets
published in 1984.
TRUST CAR
v=A5NqOAdguFU&feature=player_e
mbedded
Group Size: 20 500
Age Range: elementary to adult
Time: 5 10 minutes
Props: Boundary markers
Objective
Working in pairs, one person drives (guides) their partner (the car) around an
enclosed area.
1. Create a playing area. For example, if you have 40 people in your group the
playing area should be approximately 15 feet by 15 feet. I usually create a
quick boundary out of a length of rope measuring 60 feet (I make a circle). If
you have an energetic (rambunctious) group make the playing area smaller
which will slow the players down.
2. Have everyone partner up. If there are an odd number of people, make one
group of three.
3. Have each pair determine who will be the car and who will be the driver.
Drivers stand behind the cars and place their hands lightly on the cars
shoulders. Cars put their bumpers up (hands up) for safety.
4. When the signal is given, drivers can drive their cars wherever they want
inside the playing area. Walking speed only. No collisions.
5. Allow the drivers and cars to experience working together for about a minute
or two and then ask everyone to stop and switch roles: cars become drivers
and drivers become cars.
Rules
1. Walking only. (No running)
2. Accidents (collisions) are not allowed.
Comments
1. This is a simple yet surprisingly effective activity to explore trust. I confess
that it appears somewhat juvenile and some facilitators may be reluctant to lead
this with a group of adults, especially corporate types. However, Ive used this
activity many times with great success with all types of groups. I like to use this
activity early in a program.
2. Regarding the use of blindfolds - - I dont like using blindfolds for the most
part. I know some facilitators would feel inclined to have the cars use blindfolds
in an activity like this. However, I believe the use of blindfolds diminishes the
power of the activity. When someone takes a peek during the activity to make
sure everything is OK then I say that person is choosing the level of challenge
they are up to. My job is to help create an environment where the participants
feel safe enough to challenge themselves.
What is trust? Define this term in relationship to this activity.
What are the attributes of a good driver (leader)?
What are the attributes of a good car?

Which did you prefer: to be the car or to be the driver? Why?
Who or what is guiding (driving) your life? What is your relationship to this
force?
Quote
Anyone who doesnt take truth seriously in small matters cannot be trusted in
large ones either.
-- Albert Einstein
Variations
After everyone has had an opportunity to be a car, offer them the following
challenge: its now nighttime and cars need to close their eyes (drivers keep
their eyes open!). This variation requires a new level of trust between car and
driver.
History
I learned this from master team builder Jeff Long.
TRUST CIRCLE SIT
v=IYXyPmH7YOA&feature=player_em
bedded
Group Size 15 150
Time: 5-15 minutes
Space Minimal Medium Lots
Props: none
Objective
Working as a team, sit in the lap of the person behind you.

1. Stand in a circle with everyone facing in a clockwise direction. This can be
accomplished by having the group first stand in a traditional circle (shoulder to
shoulder) and then have everyone raise their right hand and point it toward the
center of the circle while the left hand points to the outside of the circle.
2. Next, ask everyone to gently grab on to the shoulders of the person in front of
them (hold on throughout the activity). Tell everyone that youre about to sit
down on the lap of the person in back of you so (while holding onto the
shoulders of the person in front of you) look behind you to see how close the
persons legs are behind you. If they are too far away, you will miss their legs
altogether. At this stage of the game its likely the entire group will need to sidestep towards the center of the circle, getting so close to each other that they are
like packed sardines.
3. Now its time to do a test run. This is accomplished by telling the group that,
on your signal, they are to sit down together (still holding shoulders), lowering
themselves just to the point that they can feel the lap of the person behind them
and then stand back up. During the test run, no one is actually sitting in
anyones lap. After the test run, ask the group to reconfigure themselves if
necessary so everyone is ready for the real thing.
4. The Real Thing - - When everyone is ready, give them a countdown
whereupon the group slowly sits down on the persons lap behind them. Dont
allow them to sit down too long. 30 seconds is plenty of time. If they sit too
long they are likely to fall over. Give them a countdown to stand up.
Rules:
No horseplay. No fooling around.
Safety Warning
1. People with bad backs, bad knees, bad hips, etc. should NOT do this activity.
If your group lacks maturity or the ability to do this slowly and methodically and
not fool around than dont do it.
2. Legs MUST stay together during this activity otherwise people will go to sit
down and then fall to the ground.
3. The group will respond to the tone you set. Keep your tone slow and
methodical.
4. If someone is very heavy or very tall or very short they should not participate.
Comments
1. The big drawback to this activity is also its greatest value - - its very touchy
feely which means people are very close to each other and they will touch each
other in places that are not normal in public.
2. I say its a drawback because there are so many people that have had
extremely negative experiences with strangers and others touching them (ex.
sexual abuse). This activity is not good for anyone who has a history of these
types of experiences. Its also not good for people who are really overweight.
Leading this activity with a group that has anyone who is overweight can make
them feel self-conscious. For an overweight person, this activity is not inclusive.
3. On the other hand, the fact that people are close and must rely on each other
is the reason Ill lead this activity. With the right group, this activity is hard to
beat. You have to use your best judgment when selecting this activity for your
group. When in doubt, pick another activity.
Debriefing
1. If you teach environmental studies you could do the following to teach the
interconnectedness of all things: Prepare large nametags ahead of time that
participants will wear. The nametags might include some of the following: fox,
water, honeybee, owl, tree, fish, etc. Have the group do the Circle Sit in a soft
grassy area and then have one person purposely fall over and watch the
ramification. The entire circle is adversely affected. Is this true to life?
2. You can also do the same variation described above if you are working with a
business team. Instead of nametags from nature you will create nametags with
key components of the business and marketplace.
Quote
Until he extends his circle of compassion to include all living things, man will
not himself find peace.
-- Albert Schweitzer
Variations:
1. Have the group let go of each others shoulders once seated.
2. Have the group attempt to walk (waddle) in a clockwise direction while seated
(everyone must hold onto shoulders).
3. For the very brave, have the group lean back at the waist so their torso is
resting on the person in back of them.
History
I learned this activity from the book entitled The New Games Book published
in 1976.
TRAFFIC JAM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQunc5T9B8&feature=player_embedded
Group Size 8 per Traffic Jam set up
Time: 30 60 minutes
Space: Minimal
Props: Space markers
Objective
Solve this human size puzzle. Half of the group travels in one direction while
the other half travel in the opposite direction. Specifically, team members 1, 2,
3, 4 must move to spaces F, G, H, I respectively andteam members 5, 6, 7, 8
must move to spaces A, B, C, D respectively. Refer to diagrams below.
1. Place the nine letters (space markers) in a right angle configuration with the
letter E in the corner.
2. Eight team members (players) are to stand on one of the following squares:
A, B, C, D, F, G, H, and I. Space E is to remain empty at the beginning of the
exercise.
Rules
1. Players must stand on a spot marker unless they are moving.

2. Only one player may move at a time.
3. Players may only move forward (towards the direction the player must end
in).
4. Only one player on a square at a time.
5. Players may use the corner square (Position E).
6. Players may only jump a maximum of one person/space at a time.
7. The playing area may not be altered.
8. Violation of a rule may result in a penalty. Penalties might include no verbal
communication for 1 minute for the one person or the entire group, blindfolding
one person for 5 minutes or the rest of the activity, who ever talks must do so
while clapping their hands repeatedly, etc.).
What To Expect
This activity requires lots of communication, problem solving skills and patience
from the group. Ive seen groups who are totally engaged to the person and
Ive seen groups where two or three individuals are offering suggestions and
feedback.
Debriefing
I like to use this activity when a group needs to discuss / work on / create
specific reproducible plans to achieve success. When I lead this activity Ill
require a group to create a solution sheet (see Solution below as an
example). The solution represents a precise step-by-step approach that
(nearly) any group could to follow to solve the Traffic Jam activity. Ill then ask
the group what skills were required to create such a document and Ill ask what
value the document holds. Ill then ask the group to make the metaphorical
jump to real life - - in other words, what specific skills are transferable to
creating a similar step-by-step success plan for their current (real life) situation?
Variations
1. Require the group to be able to repeat the solution on demand. You can also
offer the group bonus points if they finish the solution in less than the given
amount of time.
2. To simplify this activity, give the group only 7 spaces to start with (instead of
9). In this situation, you would only have 6 people playing the game. The
directions are virtually the same.
3. The following is for a sophisticated group who needs a real challenge: For a
group larger than 8 people (8 to 15), first divide the group into two groups so
that one group is made up of 8 people (Group A has 8 people, Group B has the
rest). Do not present the activity or show any component of the activity until the
two groups are physically separated (in two different rooms). When the two
groups are separated, supply Group A with the basic challenge as described
earlier. Group A will be working on the life size version of this activity (again,
as described earlier) while Group B is asked to complete a table top version of
this challenge. The tabletop version looks just like the full size version only
Group B is using small figurines (toys) to move through the puzzle (outlined on
a sheet of notebook paper). Group B is supplied with the same written
directions as Group A. A critical piece of equipment for this activity is a set of
walkie-talkies so that the two groups can communicate without seeing each
other. In addition to the objective as listed in Group A and Bs written
directions, require the following objective: Success is only achieved when
BOTHGroup A and Group B have solved the challenge. Require that they solve
the challenge in the least amount of time. Do NOT allow the two groups to see
each other. Only allow communication via the radios. You may observe the
following behavior in this variation: I have had the two groups communicate
early on only to decide that they are working on two totally different problems
(Group B says were working with little toys on a table. Group A says were
moving people along the floor). In order for BOTH groups to be successful
they must share information and be EXTRA clear. Usually one group solves the
challenge before the other, which allows one group to help the other. To make
this EXTRA difficult, have 3 groups (A, B, and C). A is doing this in life size
while groups B and C are working on table top versions. Youll need 3 radios
and 3 rooms to accomplish this. Require all 3 groups to succeed (solve the
puzzle).
History
I learned this activity from a book by Karl Rohnke called Silver Bullets
(Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company, 1984)
Solution to Traffic Jam
(see the grid below)
1. In the following solution there are a total of 24 moves.
2. The 8 participants maintain the samenumber throughout the activity.
3. The spaces (spots that participants step on) are identified with the letters A
through I (the first 9 letters of the alphabet). The spaces do notmove or change
- - only the participants move (from space to space).
4. There could be more than one solution but this is the only one I know of.
TOUCH THE BALL
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Group Size 8-20
Time: 5-15 minutes
Set Up Time: none
Props: One ball for each group of 10-15 people
Objective
Everyone must touch the ball at the same time.

Get your ball ready and gather your group.
Rules
No touching anyone or anything else (includes hair and clothing).
Comments
1. This is a great introductory level group problem solving activity to do at the
beginning of a program. I like this because it requires people to be close
physically yet prohibits touching. This activity begins the investment required to
ease barriers around touching and close proximity.
2. This is a great activity to lead with large groups (200+) - - see below.
What issues should our group focus our attention and energies on?
How can our group do more with less?
Quote
When you stop putting yourself on the line, and you dont touch your own heart,
how do you expect to touch other people?
-- Tori Amos
Variations
1. After the group has successfully completed the basic challenge outlined
above, require the group to follow the same rules AND add these rules: one
person in the group must touch with their nose, another with their elbow,
another with their knee, and another with the tip of their shoe (which must stay
on their foot) AND then give the group 2 minutes to solve this.
2. To lead this activity with a large group (20 200+), start off by supplying the
group with lots of balls (about 1 ball per 10 people). Tell the group that
everyone must be touching a ball at the end of 30 seconds (and you cant be
touching anyone/anything else). No need to divide the group up, just pass the
balls out, give the directions and start counting. People will scurry around trying
to find a place to fit in. Once everyone has succeeded (this is easy with so
many balls), tell the group their has been a reduction in funding and they will
have to do the same with less (or something similar) this gives you the reason
to take a couple of the balls. Now give the group 30 seconds to find a spot and
touch a ball. Once they succeed, repeat the process (take more balls away). If
someone violates the dont touch anyone/anything else rule I usually serve
him or her a penalty something like singing one round of row-row-row your
boat while hopping around the room. Once the penalty is served they get to join
back in.
History
I first learned this activity while working as a juvenile corrections officer in the
Camp Woodson program.
TENNIS BALL MADNESS
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Group Size minimum of 20, maximum of 100
Age Range: High School adult
Time: 30 minutes (with debrief)
Props: Five hula hoops (aka containers), 150 tennis balls
Objective
Get all the items from the center container into your own container.
1. Divide the group into four equally sized teams (or as close to equal as you
can get).
2. Supply each team with a hula-hoop. Place a fifth hula-hoop on the ground
(called the center hula-hoop) and ask each team to back away from the center
hula-hoop approximately 30-40 feet. Each group then places their hula-hoop on
the ground (on the corners of an imaginary box). Refer to diagram below.
3. Dump the 150 tennis balls into the center hula-hoop and then hand each
team a sealed envelope containing the directions (see below). Ask the groups
to open their envelope and begin reading the directions on your signal - -the
goal being to get all four groups reading the directions simultaneously.
4. Each group will have the SAME set of directions, which read:OBJECTIVE:
Get all the items from the center container into your own container.RULES:
(1) Each person may carry only one item at a time. (2) Items must be carried
(no throwing or rolling of items). (3) Once the center container is empty, you
may take items from any other container. (4) You may not guard any of the
containers. (5) You win when all the items are in your container. (6) Violation of
a rule may result in a penalty.
5. Allow the teams just enough time to read the directions and then shout,
GO! The goal here is to force the teams to take action without planning. A
frenzy of activity will ensue (see the video clip).
Rules
See rules listed above.
Safety Warning
Make sure the area you intend to run this activity in is free and clear of holes or
things the participants could slip on.
Comments
1. When you yell GO! the groups will have just enough information to begin
taking action. If you wait too long and allow the groups to read through the
information AND start to make a plan, they may decide to work cooperatively
right off the bat (without going through all the frenzy).
2. When you yell Go! without allowing them to plan, they will usually run to the
center hoop and start grabbing tennis balls. The center hoop will quickly empty
(within 60 90 seconds) and then the groups will begin taking balls from the
neighboring hoops. Usually within 3 or 4 minutes most will start to catch on that
its nearly impossible to ever win unless something changes. What needs to
change? The way the group thinks. They must begin to think of a solution
where everyone can win.
3. Most groups decide to cooperate by stacking ALL of the hula-hoops and then
placing all of the balls inside the stack of hula-hoops. This is legal according
to the rules.
4. This activity can work even better (i.e. people become more competitive) by
getting the small work groups to do something competitive prior to the Tennis
Ball Madness activity. Any old competitive activity will do. The point is to get
them working in small teams and thinking competitively just before the Tennis
Ball Madness activity. Im trying to set the group up. This way, they are more
likely to work really hard during Tennis Ball Madness which usually equates to
everyone learning the lessons at a deeper (more emotional) level.
1. The way I usually debrief this activity is to ask the groups to form into groups
of 7 10 people making sure someone from each of the previous work groups
is represented in this new discussion group. I then ask them to discuss the
following (I show this to them on a piece of paper: Lose Lose, Win Lose,
Win Win. Thats usually all it takes for the small discussion groups to have a
good conversation. I give the small groups 5 or 10 minutes to discuss ideas
and then we meet back as a large group to share insights.
2. TRUE STORY: I led this activity with the teaching staff of a public middle
school. Just like every other group that plays this game, everyone ran around
trying to win the game by placing all the balls in their own hoop. Then, as the
group got tired of running, a teacher suggested letting one team win by placing
all the balls in their hoop. The other three teams conceded defeat and
everyone placed the balls in the fourth teams hoop. During the debrief, we
discussed win-lose (which is what they decided on), lose-lose, and win-win.
One of the teachers suggested that their solution (a win-lose solution) was more
realistic. She argued that the real world doesnt play by win-win and they
shouldnt teach that type of thinking to the kids. In the real world she said,
people are out to get you and you better watch out for yourself. No one in the
room challenged this teacher. Even the principal was in agreement. Imagine
having these teachers work with YOUR child! This team, by the way, was
experiencing a number of very deep and difficult challenges. After some
dialogue, I was able to help the teachers see that win-win thinking is valuable
and alive in our everyday society.
Common insights:
1. Lose-Lose and Win-Lose require lots more energy.
2. We must be on the look out for Win-Win opportunities from the outset.
3. One person can make all the difference in the world. NOTE This will
usually be an insight when one person is responsible for getting the group to
stop the frenzy and come up with a Win-Win answer (i.e. stack the hula-hoops).
All it takes is one committed person to see things differently AND have the
courage and conviction to make their views known to the larger community.
4. Sometimes Ill ask the small discussion groups to identify what the tennis
balls and the hula-hoops are metaphorically.
Variations
1. If the group size is small (20 people), have one central hoop (aka container)
and only three outer hoops - - i.e. divide the group of 20 into only three working
teams instead of four. Keeping the work teams at a minimum size of seven
people seems to work better than allowing them to get too small (smaller than
7).
2. No tennis balls? Try cutting up foam noodles into 2-inch sections. You can
find foam noodles at department stores that sell pool toys. They cut really
easily with a bread knife. Dont want to deal with foam noodles? Go to the craft
store and buy a bag full of soft fuzzy balls that are about an inch in diameter.
These are supper easy to carry on a plane.
3. No hula-hoops? Not to worry. Create some hula-hoop size rings out of short
sections of rope or string.
History
I first learned this activity from Sam Sikes who has authored many great book
on team building activities including Executive Marbles and Feeding the
Zircon Gorilla.
TEAM BUILD A Word
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Group Size 20 200+
Time: 15-45 minutes
Space Minimal Medium Lots
Props: One 3x5 index card per person
Objective
Create words using letters on index cards.

1. First you must create at least one 3x5 index card for each person. Using a
black marker, write one letter of the alphabet on each card using BIG block
letters. One set of cards = 26 letters (all letters of the alphabet).
2. If you have less than 26 people playing, give some people two cards. If you
have more than 26 playing, have a second set of index cards (26 letters) ready
to hand out. If you have a really large group (say...200) you'll need lots of sets
of the alphabet so everyone can play. IMPORTANT: Each time you create a
set of alphabet cards you must add an additional set of vowels (A, E, I, O, U).
Rules:
1. Each person is supplied with one card. You must stay with your card
throughout the activity (no trading cards or handing them off).
2. When I give the signal, form a 3-letter word. Once you've formed your word,
stay with your word (group) until the next set of directions. Give the group
about 60 seconds to form their words. Ask all non-utilized letters to come to the
"lost and found" area (so they can help each other).
3. After the words are formed, take a moment to see what all the words are (let
everyone see each other's words). Most likely all the letters wont get used in
each round (but look in the variations section below).
4. Round 2: Now form 4-letter words (but not the bad kind of 4-letter word. You
know what I'm talking about.) Everyone plays, even the lost and found letters.
5. Round 3: Similar to rounds 1 and 2 in that you will be forming words with
your letters. During this round your team will be timed - - you have 5 minutes to
complete the task starting from the moment I say Go! Every letter in the room
must be used or the entire group fails. You can make words of any length. You
can use letters in a crossword fashion (i.e. sharing letters is permitted).
Comments
A wonderful activity to lead with a large group. Usually lots of laughter is
involved.
Debriefing
1. After round three I like to have people form into small groups to discuss the
differences they observed in the behavior of the group between rounds 1, 2 and
3. People almost always observe that rounds 1 and 2 had people acting on
their own self-interest where as in round 3 people shifted into helping the
COMMUNITY. What types of behavior would you like to see carried over from
round 3 into our daily life?

2. I like to use this activity when discussing inclusion vs. exclusion. Consider
giving a vowel to someone who is normally treated as an "outsider". Because
vowels are so useful, the owner of the vowel will usually feel included when the
group invariably needs their help on a consistent basis when forming words.
On the flip side, consider giving a tough letter (Z for example) to someone who
is popular or with the in crowd. It can be enlightening to hear how these two
people were treated.
3. I will often lead this activity at the beginning of a personal mission statement
workshop. After we play, I ask the group if there are there any wrong letters
(out of 26 letters in the alphabet)? The response is usually no. I continueIf
there are no wrong letters, then how is it possible to have a misspelled word?
The group responds with - - 1) right letter in the wrong place and/or 2) missing
letter. I then share with the group my belief that our mission in life is unique,
just like the letters of the alphabet. There is no other person on the planet like
you. I believe there are many people who are unhappy with their job/life
because they are, like the wrong letter in a misspelled word, in the wrong
place. We are all unique and its our job to awaken to our divine purpose. Until
we awaken, frustration abounds.
Quote
I respect a man who knows how to spell a word more than one way.
-- Mark Twain
Variations:
If youre teaching Spanish, ask the group to form Spanish words. If youre
teaching Pig Latin have the group form Pig Latin words.
History
I learned this activity from the book Cowstails and Cobras II by Karl Rohnke.
ROPE PILE
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Group Size: 5 10
Props: One rope that is 75 100 feet long
Objective
In the shortest amount of time, conclusively determine if the rope has a knot tied
in it.
1. Prior to the group arriving, tie a loose knot in the middle of the rope (dont tie
a tight knot because it will be too easy for the group to see).
2. Pile the rope in such a way that the two ends of the rope are on top and to
the side. Lay one end of the rope to the North and the other to the South.
3. Gather the group around the rope pile and give them the objective and rules.
Rules
1. No member of the team may touch the rope pile.
2. The group may request a pull from the facilitator whenever they choose.
Each pull will result in two things: (1) the facilitator pulling an arms length of
rope from BOTH ends of the rope pile and (2) adding 5 minutes to the final time.
Comments
1. Its important that the group understands the objective - - they must
CONCLUSIVELY determine if the rope has a knot tied in it AND they must make
their decision in the least amount of time. These two requirements set up a
balancing act that is the beauty of this activity. The group usually struggles
over how to manage coming to a conclusion in the least amount of time. The
group will almost always ask for several pulls so they can see whats going on
inside the pile of rope. Asking for a pull can result in added stress to the group
because some will not want to have the time (5 minutes) added while others will
feel that a pull is the only thing that will allow the group to make a conclusive
decision.
2. When you do a pull on the rope pile, you should do so carefully. Make sure
you pull only the rope that needs to move. Pull one arms length of rope from
each end of the rope pile.
Every time Ive led this activity I see two distinct groups of people form. One
group (usually the minority) is satisfied with making a guess to determine
whether the rope has a knot in it. The other group (usually the majority) wants
to make a decision based on observation (can they see a knot?). The two
groups are usually in conflict. This activity presents a fantastic opportunity to
discuss decision-making. When is it appropriate to make decisions based on
observable data? When is it best to make a decision based on intuition? How
does the group currently make decisions? Are both camps honored?
Quote
More than anything else, I believe its our decisions, not the conditions of our
lives, that determine our destiny.
-- Anthony Robbins
Variations
1. Ive always wanted to try a table top version of this activity. Have people
work in groups of 3. Supply each group with small diameter string (ex. kite
string) rather than rope. A pull would only be inches long (rather than arms
length). In this version you could have multiple groups working at one time.
You would have to set up the strings in advance.
2. If youre working with a business group consider giving the group play
money. Set a price for each pull of rope (they must pay you). They are trying to
do two things: keep as much money as they can AND conclusively determine
whether there is a knot in the rope. If they make a correct determination about
the rope in the given amount of time they get a monetary bonus (play money).
If they are wrong, they must pay a big financial penalty.
History
This game was taught to me by master team builder Jeff Long.
PENNY CHALLENGE
Group Size: Individuals or teams of 2

Age Range: elementary adult
Time: 5-30 minutes
Props: Each person (or pair) is supplied with: eyedropper, penny, small water
container, paper towel
Objective
Using a regular eyedropper, place as many drops of water on the head of a
penny as you can. Keep track of the number of drops.
Provide one eyedropper, one penny, one paper towel, and one small container
of water (half a cup) per person. Have everyone place his or her penny heads
up on the paper towel. Before the group starts placing drops of water on their
penny, ask them to FIRST determine how many drops of water they think they
can get on the head of their penny (and write this number down). Then begin.
Remember to count drops.
Rules
The game is over when you place so many drops of water on the head of the
penny that the water leaks off the penny and on to the paper towel.
Comments
The first time I did this activity I was asked to set a goal as to how many drops I
thought I could fit on the head of a penny. I figured I could get 20 drops on.
The reality? I was able to get over 50. I was totally amazed. The science
behind the ability to place lots of drops of water on the head of a penny is called
surface tension.
This is an awesome activity to show the effect of setting goals. The first time I
did this I way underestimated the number of drops I could fit on the head of my
penny. I learned a great lesson - - or should I say, I EXPERIENCED a great
lesson: I must be careful when setting goals because I may be greatly
underestimating my real potential.
Quote
Everyone has faith in God though everyone does not know it. For everyone
has faith in himself and that multiplied to the nth degree is God. The sum total
of all that lives is God. We may not be God, but we are of God, even as a little
drop of water is of the ocean.
-- Mohandas Gandhi
Variations
Before the group arrives, contaminate one of the cups of water with a small
amount of liquid soap. This will severely reduce the waters surface tension
which means the person who ends up with this cup of water will not be able to
get nearly as many drops of water on the head of their penny. When Ive done
this in the past I watch the reactions of the person with the cup AND the
reaction of the people around this person. Often times people will place
judgment on this unfortunate soul because they are having such miserable luck
getting the water to bead up on their penny. During the debrief (process) Ill ask
this person to share the frustration they felt and then I tell them about the soap I
added to their water. This leads to a discussion about contaminating the
environment we work in and how contamination (rumors, back stabbing,
jealousy, etc.) decreases the capacity of the team rather than increases it.
How can we manage the culture of our team / organization to maximize
capacity?
History
I learned this activity from Dev Pathik.
PAPER TOWER
Group Size: 2-4 people per team

Time: 15-30 minutes
Set Up Time: seconds
Props: Each team receives: two sheets of regular paper (8.5 x 11), one large
coin, one pair of scissors
Objective
Using two sheets of paper, build the tallest freestanding structure that will hold a
large coin as far off the ground as possible.
Provide two sheets of paper (8.5 x 11) to each team as well as one large coin
and a pair of scissors. This activity is best done on a floor that is rock solid (tile,
no carpet) and where there is absolutely no wind. Make sure people are far
enough away from each other that they dont interfere with each others
structure.
Rules
1. The structure must be completed in the specified time limit (example: 15
minutes).
2. The tower must be free standing. It cant lean on or be supported by
anything other than the surface of the floor.
3. No other supplies may be used.
Comments
The solution Ive provided involves cutting each sheet of paper in half
lengthwise - - youll end up with four pieces of paper measuring 4.25 x 11.
Then fold each sheet in half lengthwise and then fold it again to create three
folds in each sheet. Youll then fold each piece of paper into a long triangular
tube (see pictures below). You can keep these tubes from unfolding by cutting
little tabs into the ends of the tubes. Then insert one tube end into another tube
end, its as if you are going to make an antennae. Once youve created a tower
made of four sections of this triangular tubing youll be faced with balancing it
and then placing your coin on top (a tricky thing to do). There are other ways to
build a tall structure Im sure. If you can beat my record of 45 send me a
photo!
I like to use this activity to talk about goal setting. Building a tower to hold up a
coin is a lot like setting and achieving goals. One has to make a plan,
experiment, have desire, share ideas, etc.
Variations
1. This activity can be competitive in nature - - i.e. the winner is the one whose
coin is the furthest off the ground. Or you can make this a win-win activity by
establishing the following goal: individually you are to build your structures to
hold your coin up. Once all the structures are completed, ALL structures will be
measured (floor to coin). The total of all structure heights are then added up.
This total is now the record.
2. If you like, you can keep going by re-supplying the group with new paper and
have them build new structures with the goal being to beat the record.
Hopefully the group will begin to share the best practices in design strategies.
If they share designs and help each other, its likely the group will significantly
surpass their original record.
Quote
Do you wish to rise? Begin by descending. You plan a tower that will pierce
the clouds? Lay first the foundation of humility.

-- Saint Augustine
History
I like building things out of paper and one day tested this activity with a group I
was training and it worked out nicely.
MRS. WRIGHT
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Group Size 20 200+
Time: 5-10 minutes
Space: Minimal
Props: 3 x 5 index cards - - one for each person
Objective
Pass the index cards around the circle, following the right left directions of
the Mrs. Wright story.
1. Supply each person with an index card. Have each person right their name
on the card.
2. Have the group stand up and form a big circle. If the group is really large
(100+) you can have them form 2 (or more) smaller circles. Actual numbers of
people in each group is not important.
3. Before starting the Mrs. Wright activity make sure everyone has only ONE
card (this is very important).
4. Inform everyone that you are about to read a story. Tell the group that during
the story, if they hear the word right, they are to pass the card they have in
their hands to the Right. If they hear the word left they are to pass the card
they have in their hands to the Left.
5. Do a test run with the group. Tell the group: Id like to do a test run with
you. Ready? Right (pause to let everyone pass their card to the Right). Left
(pause to let everyone pass their card to the Left). Very good. Everyone
should now have the card they started out with (your name is on your card).
Now lets begin the story.
6. This is where you start reading the Mrs. Wright story (see the story below).
Start off slow so people can get a chance to feel successful. Then slowly speed
up.
7. If everyone does their job, they will end up with their card at the end of the
story.
THE STORY: Once upon a time, Mrs. Wright took her three left handed
children (Wendy Wright, Larry Wright, and Billy Wright) on a vacation. They left
on a Monday and planned to return just before the Thanksgiving holiday. Billy
Wright left school for the Wright vacation. Wendy left a whole plate of leftovers
for her cat to eat during the Wright vacation. But Billy, who is the president of a
local leftist organization, was the saddest of all. He left behind all the addresses
of friends that he wanted to write to while on vacation. This mistake left Billys
friends in the dark. By the end of the week, all the Wrights wished they had
never left. They still had the weekend left, but Mrs. Wright decided that the right
thing to do would be to return home right away. They arrived back at their
house, which is located to the left of Yankee Stadium, in time for Thanksgiving
leftovers.
Rules
See description above.
Comments
People will quickly discover (experience) through this activity that everyone
needs to pay attention. If one person isnt doing his or her job then it has a big
effect on everyone else.
Debriefing
I like to use this activity to discuss the impact our individual efforts have on the
whole. For example, if one person (Bob) does his job well (listens to the
directions and passes the cards in the correct directions) and another person
(Sally) located 4 positions to Bobs left doesnt pay attention and doesnt do
her job well, this can effect the outcome for Bob (he may not end up with his
card). With groups Ive worked with in the past, this activity has successfully
opened the doors to great conversations about the importance of full
commitment from those involved in a project.
Variations
1. There is a great icebreaker activity I call The Big Question (found on this
site) that involves index cards. It is a great activity to lead right before the Mrs.
Wright activity.
2. If you work with young people, have them write a story of their own that
works out like the Mrs. Wright story (its tricky!).
History
I learned this activity from Jim Cain, author of the book Teamwork &
Teamplay.
MR POTATO HEAD
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Group Size 5 people with 10-60 observing
Time: 5 15 minutes
Props: One Mr. Potato Head toy
Objective
Build something with the supplied plastic pieces.
1. Before the activity starts, place the Mr. Potato Head pieces in an opaque bag
(like a brown paper bag). Dont allow anyone to see the contents of the bag.
2. Gather the group of 10 to 60 people and then say the following:
We need 5 volunteers for this next activity. The volunteers must be willing to
sit on the floor and keep their eyes closed for up to two minutes. The
volunteers will be asked to complete a task using pieces of plastic. Volunteers
will be able to complete this task without moving around.
3. Then get the volunteers to step forward and sit down on the floor in a small
circle and in such a way that the rest of the group can observe them.
4. Next tell the volunteers that the big group is going to observe them as they
work and they might hear people in the big group laughing they are not to be
alarmed at this laughter.
5. Tell the big group to observe what happens because youll be asking some
questions after the activity is over.
6. Finally, ask the volunteers to close their eyes. Then tell the volunteers to
build something with the supplied plastic pieces as you dump them in the
middle of their small circle (note: I do NOT tell the group to build a Mr. Potato
Head). Tell the group they have two minutes to complete the task. NOTE: Mr.
Potato Head usually comes with lots more parts to put on than he has places to
put them. I always supply the group with all the pieces so they are faced with
making a decision as to what to put on and what to leave off.
Rules
The team of 5 must keep their eyes closed throughout the activity.
Comments
This is a great activity to do at the beginning of a program if you use it to
discuss the concept of Product vs. Process (see below). Its a very cerebral
activity.
Debriefing
1. I like to use this activity to discuss the concept of Process and Product. A
real life example of how I used this: a restaurant team consisting of wait staff
and kitchen staff were at odds with each other. The wait staff found the kitchen
staff to be rude and demeaning. The kitchen staff found the wait staff to be a
bunch of whiners and complainers. The management team was looking at the
bottom line which was being negatively impacted by the problem.
2. I led the Mr. Potato Head activity as described above and then had the group
divide into smaller teams to discuss and then answer the following question:
Which is more important - - (1) Process (how the group worked together to put
Mr. Potato Head together) or (2) Product (how Mr. Potato Head looks)?
3. Its important to note that the group of volunteer Potato Head builders created
a bizarre looking version of Mr. Potato Head who looked nothing like the picture
on the cover of the box (volunteer Potato Head builders almost always build
some weird looking thing). When I pose this question to the group (Product v.
Process) I keep Mr. Potato Head handy to show the group metaphorically what
the product is.
4. Would you be surprised to discover the kitchen staff believed that Product
was most important and the wait staff believed Process was most important?
The kitchen staff was operating under the belief that the product (the food) is all
important. The wait staff understood the importance of a quality product (food)
and yet they also knew the experience of working in a negative environment.
The management knew that customers didnt want to eat at a restaurant that
serves tasty food in a negative environment (the wait staff always had a bad
attitude).
5. I believe Product and Process are inseparable. The question of which is
more important (Product or Process) is a trick question.
6. Heres the metaphorthink of an iceberg. Its well known that the majority
(over 90%) of an iceberg is located under the surface of the water. Only a small
portion of the iceberg is visible above the surface. The portion above the water
is analogous to the Product (the Mr. Potato Head). Its the part we all tend to
pay the most attention to. However, if it wasnt for the 90%+ of the iceberg
underneath the water (the Process) we would never see the upper part (i.e.
Process supports the Product, the Product cannot stand alone in a sustainable
way).
7. The challenge is the Process part of the equation is harder to see and its not
as sexy as the Product, and thus many people (many teams) fail to care for it.
The result of diminishing the size of the iceberg below the water is a reduced
amount above the water - - the same is true in a team or in business. If one
fails to care for the Process, the Product is diminished.
8. For this group, the Mr. Potato Head activity created a new awareness among
the kitchen staff.
9. Another example of how Ive seen this activity play out is with a law firm I
worked with. I set the activity up as described earlier only this time the group of
volunteers had one person who horded all the pieces and built the Mr. Potato
Head to look EXACTLY like the picture on the box. He did this without help
from the rest of the group and without consulting the group. He then went on to
announce to the rest of the group Ive done it!. One of the other participants
told him that his behavior during Mr. Potato Head mirrored his behavior in the
office - - he didnt communicate what he was doing and he horded resources.
His response was Yeah, but I always get the job done. What this attorney
failed to realize was the real cost to the team (the community) of his behavior.
When I asked the group to discuss the topic of Process vs. Product, this Lone
Ranger said Product is always the most important thing. This activity helped
broach the subject and gave this individual and the team an opportunity to
discuss what changes needed to be made to create a sustainable working
environment.
History
I learned this activity from Elbert Hargrave who is a master games player living
in North Carolina.
MOUSE TRAP TRUST
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bedded
Group Size: People work in pairs
Age Range: Adult
Time: 20 30 minutes
Props: One wooden traditional mouse trap per pair
Objective
Coach your partner (whos eyes are closed) into placing their hand on top of a
set mouse trap.
1. Prior to leading this activity you (the facilitator) must accurately assess your
groups ability to safely participate in this activity. Dont do this activity if you or
the group isnt ready.
2. Make sure everyone understands they can participate (or not) at the level
that best suits them. Participation in this activity is purely voluntary. If you dont
want to participate then dont do it. Find some other way to add value to the
experience (observe and give feedback, etc.).
3. When youre group is clear on the rules of engagement tell them there will be
four stages to this activity: STEP #1: Leader demonstrates how to set a
mousetrap. Partner up, each pair gets 1 trap, practice setting the trap. Plan on
this taking about 4-5 minutes. STEP #2: Partners each get a chance to set a
trap with their eyes closed. Plan on this taking about 4-5 minutes. STEP #3:
Show the group how to safely un-set a trap by placing your hand directly on top
of the trap and then taking your hand off the trap (see video). This step can be
shocker for some. They might find it hard to believe what youre doing. Plan on
this taking about 5 minutes to have pairs try. STEP # 4: Person A closes eyes
then person B sets trap and places it on a hard surface. Person A is coached by
person B to un-set trap. Switch roles.
4. Pacing is important. Dont rush this activity.
5. Speak clearly and confidently. This is not the time and place for jokes (by
you or anyone else).
6. Dont show all 4 steps at one time. Show one step then have the group do
that step.
Rules
1.This is an optional activity. Dont do what you dont want to do.

2. No joking around.
Safety Warning
1. A high degree of trust is required to successfully accomplish this challenge.
This challenge is best left for a group that is advanced as far as maturity and
their ability to safely care for one another.
2. People can get hurt in this activity but it is unlikely they will get seriously hurt
(thats one reason we use a mouse trap instead of a rat trap!).
3. Have your participants sign a liability release form prior to participating in this
activity.
Comments
1. This is one of the most amazing activities Ive ever seen. Its so portable and
yet so powerful in its ability to create growth possibilities within individuals and
a group.
2. If you are familiar with the trust building activity called the Trust Fall
(described elsewhere in this CD) youll find this activity to be similar in its
impact.
3. Expect some people not to participate in this activity at all. Expect others to
stop participating half way through (like when you tell them to put their hand on
top of the trap).
4. This activity can be powerful with a small group (two or four people) and just
as powerful with a room full of people (500+). Id even go so far to say that this
activity will be transformational for many.
Which did you prefer, to coach or be coached?
If this mousetrap represents a fear in your life, what did you like about how you
handled it? What would you change?
What did you observe in the interactions between partnerships around you?
Quote
The early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.
-- Jon Hammond
Variations
Hand out a mousetrap to each person. Have them write on the trap a fear they
are choosing to face in their life.
History
I learned this activity from Sam Sikes who is a master games player and author
of many books including Executive Marbles and Feeding the Zircon Gorilla.
M&M ARM WRESTLING
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Group Size 2 - 200
Time: 5 minutes
Props: One bag of M&M candy
Objective
Earn as many points as you can before time runs out.
Setup / Preparation
1. Have people partner up and ask them to assume the traditional arm
wrestling position. I like people to lie on the floor and get in the arm wrestling
position (yes, even with adults) however; if tables are easily available you can
use them. Part of the setup for this is to actually use this phrase Please get in
the arm wrestling position. Using this phrase will plant a seed that will
influence the actions of the participants.
2. The following directions are then given to the group:
Your challenge is to earn as many points as you can before time runs out. You
(individually) earn a point when the back of your arm wrestling partners hand
touches the ground. (Demonstrate this for the group) You will have 10
seconds from the time I say GO.
3. Then say Go! after youve given the instructions.
4. After 10 seconds is up say Stop! and then see how many points people
have earned. What usually happens (99% of the time) is very few points (if any)
are earned because people spent all their time actually arm wrestling rather
than working together. Ill give the group a couple of tries until they start to get
it.
Rules
See the description above.
Safety Warning
If someone has a hand, arm, shoulder or back injury they should not participate.
Comments
1. This activity has been around for a while and yet, most of the people I meet
havent played it. Once you know the trick, its easy to earn LOTS of points.
The trick is to work together (win-win) with your partner by allowing your arms to
go back and forth and back and forth very quickly.
2. If youre wondering where this game gets its name, heres the explanation - for every point earned, people get one M&M candy. Getting to eat candy is
usually great incentive for kids although Im not much for giving kids more
sugar.
1. The way I usually debrief this activity is to ask the groups to form into groups
of 7 10 people making sure someone from each of the previous work groups
is represented in this new discussion group. I then ask them to discuss the
following (I show this to them on a piece of paper: Lose Lose, Win Lose,
Win Win
2. Thats usually all it takes for the small discussion groups to have a good
conversation. I give the small groups 5 or 10 minutes to discuss ideas and then
we meet back as a large group to share insights.
3. Common insights: Lose-Lose and Win-Lose require lots more energy and this
type of thinking produces less (points) for all involved. We must be on the look
out for Win-Win opportunities from the outset.
4. Sometimes I get thisOK, this win-win stuff is all fine and dandy Tom, but I
just want to show my domination in a game of arm wrestling. Whats wrong with
that? Well, theres nothing wrong with that type of thinking. I play competitive
sports and I love to win (but not at the expense of relationships). The challenge
is the application of this win at all costs and in all situations attitude is that its
un-sustainable and very costly and its unattractive. People need to get their
competitive yah-yahs out in an appropriate venue (like playing some kind of
sport). Going for the jugular, especially with people on your own team, is
counterproductive.
History
I learned this activity from master team builder Betsy Hipple.
JUMP ROPE RECORD
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edded
Group Size: 10-30
Time: 10 20 minutes
Props: 30-foot section of rope
Objective
Get as many team members as possible to jump a rope
simultaneously.
1. Find two volunteers willing to operate the rope in a jump rope
type of fashion.
2. Start with a small group of people (3 5) that are willing to
help demonstrate how the game is played.
3. Start by having the rope turners stand in the ready position
(rope at rest on the ground). The demo team stands next to the
rope and, working with the rope turners, prepare to jump as a
group. Everyone (rope turners and demo team) work to
coordinate their efforts. In order to count as a successful jump,
the demo team must jump the rope 3 times without the rope
stopping.
4. From this point forward, the group attempts to add people as
jumpers. They can stop and plan at any time.
Rules
In order to count as a successful jump, the team must jump the
rope 3 times without the rope stopping.
Safety Warning
As the group becomes more ambitious and starts adding more
people to beat the record, its possible someone could fall and
get hurt. If things start to look dangerous stop the activity.
Comments
Its a rare group that doesnt like to go for it and create some
kind of world record and this activity plays into this natural
desire among teams. This game works well with kids and adults
(yes, adults!).
Debriefing
This activity requires focus, commitment and a high degree of
coordinated effort from the entire group. Because of this, I use
this activity to discuss such issues with the group.
To what degree are we focused on finding a solution (to X
problem)?
On a scale of 1-10 rate the level of commitment on this team.
What would you like it to be?
High functioning teams exhibit highly coordinated efforts. How
would you describe the level of coordination we display as a
team?
Quote
To succeed, jump as quickly at opportunities as you do at
conclusions.
-- Benjamin Franklin
History
This activity was first described by Karl Rohnke in his classic
book Silver Bullets.
INTERFERENCE
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Group Size: 30 200
Age Range: middle school adultIntensity: Mental=1,
Physical=1Time: 10 20 minutesSpace: Minimal Medium
Lots Set Up Time: 60 secondsProps: Two 30 foot long ropes,
whistle
Objective
Group A must successfully communicate a message to Group C.
1. Create the playing area by laying two 30-foot long ropes on
the ground parallel to each other. The ropes should be at least
30 feet apart. If the group is large (100+) you will need longer
ropes and the ropes will need to be further apart to
accommodate the size of the group. If you dont have rope you
can use masking tape (if inside) and if outside you can use
orange cones.
2. Divide the large group into three equal smaller groups. Group
A will be the Message Senders, Group B will be the Message
Interferers and Group C will be the Message Receivers.
Rules:
1. Group A has 20 seconds to transmit a specific message to
Group C. The facilitator will share this message with Group A
momentarily.
2. Group B (the message interferers) must prevent Group C from
receiving the message successfully.
3. At the end of 20 seconds, everyone must be silent and Group
C will share the message they received. Groups A and C win if it
is the exact same message sent by Group A. If Group C has only
part (or none) of the message, Group B (the message
interferers) wins.
4. Only verbal communication may be used to send the
message. Communicating the message via written word is not
permitted.
5. Each group must stay behind their lines. No one may travel
beyond the ends of the lines.
Comments
1. After all is set and everyone understands the objective and
rules, the facilitator will secretly show Group A (the message
senders) the message, which is: A friend is a present you give
yourself. Prepare this message ahead of time and write it on
white paper using a black marker in large easy to read print. Do
not let the other teams see the message! Allow the message
senders 20 to 30 seconds to prepare a plan and then blow your
whistle! After 20 seconds blow your whistle again and get
everyone to stop so you can hear what the message receivers
heard. You will repeat this process for each round.
2. Prepare for round # 2 by asking Group A to move to the
center playing area where they will now be message interferers.
Group B moves to the message receiving area and Group C
moves to the message sending area. The message to be sent
during round two is: You dont have to try, you just have to
be.
3. Prepare for round # 3 by asking Group C to move to the
center playing area where they will now be message interferers.
Group A moves to the message receiving area and Group B
moves to the message sending area. The message to be sent
during round three is: The quieter you become the more you
can hear.
4. Its important for each group to rotate into each of the
positions (sender, interferer, receiver) so everyone has an
experience of each position.
5. The Message Interferers will usually yell like wild animals and
direct their yelling at either the Message Senders or the
Message Receivers (or both). The Interferers may jump up and
down and wave their arms so as to act as a further distraction.
6. Message Senders that are successful will tend to plan their
efforts and yell their message as a unified group.
7. This activity gets VERY loud. Make sure you wont disturb
others when you play this game.
Debriefing
After three rounds, ask the group to form into smaller discussion
groups of 4 or 5 people and then ask these questions:
1.What is true about communication?
2. What strategies worked well in sending a message that you
can use in real life?
3. What strategies worked will in receiving a message that you
can use in real life?
4. What did you learn/experience about interfering with
messages that is important to understand?
Usually these questions lead to greater insights and
understandings about effective communication. There is always
some kind of interference going on however this does not mean
communication has to stop or be unclear. If the message
senders and the message receivers are committed to the
process they will overcome (most any) interference.
Variations
With larger groups you may want to give them more time to
send the message - - maybe 30 seconds.
History
Im not sure where I learned this activity but it reminds me of
growing up with my two brothers.
INHUMAN KNOT
Group Size: Groups of 6

Age Range: middle school to adult
Time: 20 - 40 minutes
Props: Three ropes (each 5 feet long) for each group of 6
people.
Objective
First, create a tangled mess of your ropes then trade your
tangled mess with another groups and see if you can untangle
their mess (while they work on yours).
1. Here is a great team building game that uses simple props, is
easy to transport (in your pocket) and is fun and challenging.
You need at least 12 people (two groups of 6) to play this game.
2.You need one 5-foot section of rope for every two people. I
use 1/8 inch diameter nylon rope.
3. People will be working in teams of 6. Setup the activity in
advance of the group by placing three ropes on the ground in
the shape of an asterisk. (*) Each team of 6 will have their own
set of ropes in the shape of an asterisk.
4. Team members pickup an end of a rope with one hand. Once
you pickup a rope you can't let go of it until the activity is over.
5. Each team of 6 will now take two minutes to tie a big knot in
the center of the ropes. Keep working on making the knot more
tangled until time runs out. Remember, no letting go of the
rope!
6.After time is up, lay your ropes (your tangled mess) on the
ground and let go of the ropes.
7. Teams will now rotate to another team's knot and pickup a
rope. Now work together to untangle the knot without letting go
of the rope.
Rules
Once you grab the end of the rope you have to hold on with
that same hand until the activity is over.
Comments
The Human Knot team building game (found on this site) is a
classic and this activity Inhuman Knot builds on the
success of that. I find that I like this activity (Inhuman Knot)
better than the Human Knot because everyone can get involved
in the solution a little easier. People also love making a big
scary knot out of their ropes. What is it about making a mess
and then handing it off to someone else to clean up? It sure
feels good.
1. Are you working with a team that needs to experience what
its like to make a mess and then hand it off to another team to
solve? Sometimes you see this in shift workers they will either
create a problem or recognize it and then postpone solving it if
they know the next shift will be more likely to solve it. Its the
old passing the buck syndrome.
2. What is perfect about this problem?
3. What can we do to avoid problems all together?
4. What is our responsibility to this problem? Is it ours to solve?
Quote
A good knot on a bad rope is no better than a bad knot.

-- Alvin Smith
Variations
1. If your group size is not divisible by 6 than you will have to be
creative. You might need to make two teams of 8 (four ropes
required for a group of 8). When its time to switch, teams of 8
must switch with teams of 8.
2. Time the group to untangle the knot.
3. Close your eyes while untying the knot. It takes lots longer
but it can be done.
History
I learned this activity from Sam Sikes who is one of the most
creative team building guys I know. Sam calls this activity "Knot
Exchange" but I call it "Inhuman Knot" because it reminds me of
another team building game called "Human Knot". Sam has
written a number of great team building games books and I
recommend every one of them.
Index Card Challenge
feature=player_embedded&v=Skovy
58P7ts
GroupSize:Individuals
AgeRange:elementaryadult
Intensity:Mental=2,Physical=1
Time:530minutes
Space:MinimalMediumLots
SetUpTime:seconds
Props:One4x6indexcardandonepairofscissorsforeachperson
Objective
Expandafourbysixinchindexcardtoadimensionthatislargeenoughtoactuallystepthrough.In
otherwords,makeaholeintheindexcardlargeenoughtopassyourentirebodythrough.
SetUp/Preparation
Provideonefourinchbysixinchindexcardandapairofscissorstoeachparticipant(scissorscanbe
sharedifnecessary).Peoplecanworkindividuallyorinteamstofindasolution.
Rules
1.Thecardmaynotberippedintheprocessofsteppingthroughit.
2.Noothermaterialsmaybeused.
Comments
1.Whentheaveragepersonreadsthischallengeandthenlooksattheindexcard,thereactionisusually
Thereisnoway!Iloveactivitiesthatlookimpossible.
2.Thiscanbeagreatindividualchallengeanditmakesagoodteam(of2or3)challenge.
DebriefingSuggestions
Thisisahandyactivitytoteachtheconceptofmakingduewithwhatyouhaveormakingalotoutof
(seemingly)alittle.Anotherlessoncouldbethatinordertosolvesomechallengeswehavetoexpand
ourthinking(likethecardhastobeexpanded).
Quote
Lifeshrinksorexpandsinproportiontoonescourage.
AnaisNin
Variations
1.Thisactivityworkswithanevensmallerindexcard(3x5)butyouhavetocutitjustright.
2.Writeonthecardthatyouplantocutup.Havepeoplewritetheareasintheirlifethatcouldusesome
expansivethinking.
History
IlearnedthisfrommyfriendJimPotterwhoisanofficerintheDAREprogram.
Solution
Clickontheimagebelowtoviewasolution.NOTE:Peoplemightfindmorethanonesolutiontothis
challenge.
Hoop Pass
GroupSize520
AgeRange:elementaryschooladult
Time:510minuteswithoutthedebrief
SetUpTime:60seconds
Props:Onehooppergroup
Objective
Passthehooparoundthecircleasquicklyaspossible.
SetUp/Preparation
1.Withthegroupstandinginacircleandholdinghands,haveonepairofpeoplebreakhands,reach
throughthehoopandthenreconnecthands.
2.Ifyouhavemorethan12people,considercreatingtwosmallergroupsandhavingthemwork
independentlyofeachother.
Rules
1.Thehoopmusttravelinaclockwisedirection.
2.Nolettinggoofhands.
3.Everyonemuststandinonelocation(norunningaround).
SafetyWarning
1.Removeglassespriortoplaying(theymightfalloffandbreak).
2.Thisisnotagoodactivityforobesepeopleorwhohavetroublebalancingorwhohaveshoulder
injuries.
Comments
InitiallyagroupmayfindthischallengeimpossibletocompletetheymightsayHowdoyoupassthe
hooparoundthecirclewithoutlettinggoofhands?Thisactivitywilloftentimesgetagrouplaughing
astheywatcheachpersonpassthroughtheloop.Thisisnotagoodactivityforpeoplewhoareobeseor
whohavedifficultybalancing.
Thehoopinthisactivitycouldmetaphoricallyrepresentahooporhoopspeoplejumpthroughona
regularbasis(foronereasonoranother).Whatareactualhoopsinyourlifethatyouhavejumped
through?Arehoopsgoodorbad?Dosomepeoplehavemoretodealwiththanothers?Ifso,why?
Whathoopswouldyouadd/removefrom/toyourlifeifyoucould?
SomethingToThinkAbout
Iadviseyoutosayyourdreamispossibleandthenovercomeallinconveniences,ignoreallthehassles
andtakearunningleapthroughthehoop,evenifitisinflames.LesBrown
Variations
1.Providetwohoops.Starttheminthesamelocationbutaskthegrouptopassonehoopinaclockwise
directionandtheotherhoopinacounterclockwisedirection.Whentheygettothemidwaypointthereis
usuallysomeconfusion.
2.Timethegroupastheypassthehooptoseehowlongittakesthemtogetitallthewayaround.Allow
anotherattempttobreaktherecord.
History
IlearnedthisactivityfromcoworkersattheCampWoodsonprograminNorthCarolinaduringthemid
80's.
Hidden Numbers
GroupSize:540
AgeRange:ElementarySchooladult
Intensity:Mental=3/3,Physical=1/3
Time:5minutes(withoutdebrief)
SetUpTime:20seconds
Props:Ashoelace
Overview
Thisactivityisperfecttohelpyourteamexperiencethevalueoflookingbeyondinitialperceptions.
Objective
Participantsmustsolvethepuzzlebydiscoveringthehiddennumbers.
SetUp/Preparation
1.Beginbykneelingdownonthegroundwiththegroupinasemicirclefacingyou.Announcetothe
groupthatyouareabouttoshowthemanumberbetweenzeroand10.Thenplaceoneshoestringonthe
groundinanyshapeatall.
2.Youshouldusesometheatricsherebyactinglikeyouaretryingtomakeaparticularshape(inreality
theshapemakesnodifferencetowhatyourereallydoingbutthegroupbeginstothinkitdoes).
3.Afteryouvearrangedtheshoestringontheground,placeyourhandsonyourthighsthenaskWhat
numberisthis?Thegroupwilllookattheshapeyouvecreatedwiththeshoestringandmakeaguess.
Askforacoupleofanswers,thentellthemtheanswer.
4.HERESTHETRICK:Youmustshowthenumberwithyourfingers,whichareonyourthighs.If
thenumberis10,thenyoukeep10fingersout.Ifthenumberiszerothenyoukeeptwofistsonyour
thighs.Ifthenumberis7,thenyouwouldhavefivefingersononehandand2ontheotherhandwiththe
extrasfoldedunder.
5.Afterthefirstguessbythegroup,makeanotherdesignwiththeshoestringonthefloor.Youcaneven
actlikeyouaremakingapatternifyouwant.Thisonlyservestodistractpeoplefurther.Whendone
withthedesign,placeyourhandsonyourthighsagainandaskWhatnumberisthis?Ifthegroupis
slowtopickuponit,confirmthatthenumberisrightinfrontofyou.
6.Ifthegrouphasaverydifficulttimesolvingthispuzzle,tellthemyouwillmakeitmoreobviousasto
whatthenumberis.Afterfiddlingaroundwiththeshoestring,REALLYemphasizeputtingyourfingers
onyourthighs(beingsomewhattheatrical).Youmayevenwiggleyourfingerssothatpeoplewillnotice
them.Iftheystilldontgetit,taketheshoestringawayandaskthegroupwhatnumberisthis?while
emphasizingyourfingers.
Rules
Therearenorealrulesforthisgame.Thesetupistheimportantthing(seeabove).
Comments
Itspossiblethatsomeoneinyourgroupknowstheanswertothisactivitybeforeyouevenstart(i.e.
someonehasplayeditbefore).IfIsuspectthis,IllmakeanannouncementthatgoessomethinglikeIf
youveexperiencedtheactivityImabouttolead,pleasekeepyourresponsestoyourselfandstealthfully
observeyourteammates.
Oftentimesinlifethesolutiontoaproblemisrightinfrontofusbutwedontseeitbecauseweallow
ourselvestobecomedistractedbyextraneousinformation.Inthiscase,theshoestringactsasa
distraction.Peopletendtofocussointentlyonthestringthattheyblockoutallotherusefulinformation.
Somepeoplewillevenarguethatyouwerenotshowingthenumberswithyourfingerstheentiretime
(whenyoureallywere).Arethereanyproblemsyourefacedwithrightnowthathaveaneasysolution
thatyourenotallowingyourselftosee?Whatisitthatdistractsusasateam?Whatwillcauseusto
gainclarity?Whatwillchangewhenwegainclarity?
Variations
WhenIdonthaveastringforthisactivityIliketousefourorfivepenstodistractthegroup.Theidea
isthesame,simplymovethepensinsomekindofgeometricway,actingasifthepenmovingisthe
sourceoftheinformation.
History
IlearnedthisactivityfromKarlRohnke,authorofthefamousteambuildinggamesbookSilverBullets
amongothers.
ELASTIC BULLSEYE
GroupSize:Groupsof68people
AgeRange:middleschooladult
SetUpTime:60seconds
Props:Onepieceofstretchyelasticandonetarget(nonelasticstringloop)foreachgroup
Objective
Thegroupmustreleasethestretchedoutelasticcircleinsuchawaythattheelasticfallsinsidethetarget
(insidethebullseye).
SetUp/Preparation
Dividethegroupintoteamsof48.
Supplyeachgroupwithoneelasticcircleandonetarget(nonelasticstring).
Eachpersoninthegroupholdsontotheelasticwithtwofingersandthenthegroupbacksupsotheelastic
isstretchedoutinabigcircle(peoplearespacedevenlyfromeachother).Placethetargetinthecenterof
thecircle.NOTE:thetargetinthevideoclipandphotoisabucketthisisaMUCHmoredifficult
challengethanusingthenonelasticstringasatarget.
Thegroupmustnowreleasetheelasticsimultaneouslyandinsuchawaythattheelasticfallsintothe
target.
Rules
1. Thegroupmustkeeptheelasticfullystretchedjustbeforetherelease.
2. Thegroupmustreleasetheelasticsimultaneously.
3. Thestretchedelasticcirclemustbekeptparalleltotheground.
4. Thetargetmuststayinthecenterofthecircle.
5. Theelasticcanonlylandinsidethetargetasaresultofthesimultaneousreleaseoftheelasticby
thegroup(example:theelasticcannotbethrownintothebucketbyoneperson)
SafetyWarning
Donotallowparticipantstoplacetheelasticneartheireyes.
Comments
Ifyourelookingforateamchallengethatiseasytotransportandverydifficultforagrouptohave
successwith,thisisit!Veryrarelywillagroupactuallysolvethischallengeitsthatdifficult.What
thisactivitywilldoisgetagrouptoengageindialogueandcreativeproblemsolving.Becausethegroup
willlikelyexperiencenonsuccess,itwillprovidethemwithanopportunitytodeterminewhatnon
successmeanstothem.
1. Frustration.Blame.Thesearethingsyoulllikelybehelpingagroupprocessthroughwiththis
activity.Especiallyifyouallow/makethemdotheactivityforalongtime(i.e.30minutes).
2. Isitpossibletosolvethischallenge?Yes.Butitsveryrare(inmyexperience).Whydoit
then?OfferthisactivityupBECAUSEitsnearlyimpossibletocomplete.Ifyouhaveagroup
thatcangetanychallengedonequicklyandeasilythenthisisagreatchallengetogivethem.
Thisactivitymaybethethingthathelpsthemevolveandplayabiggergame.
3. Yourabilitytodebriefthiseffectivelywilldeterminetheoutcomeofthislesson.Areyouableto
workwithagroupthatistryingtoprocessnonsuccess?
Variations
Usedifferenttypesoftargets.Examples:astringcircleontheground,a5gallonbucket,acup,etc.
History
ThisgamewastaughttomebyJimCain,coauthorofTeamwork&Teamplay
Count up
GroupSize:1015
AgeRange:Elementaryadult
Time:515minutes
SetUpTime:none
Props:none
Objective
Thegroupverballycountsup(sequentiallyasin1,2,3,etc.)toanumberequalingthetotalnumberinthe
team.
SetUp/Preparation
1. Haveeachteamformintoacircle.Teamsizeof10to15worksbest.Ifyouhavelotsofpeople
havethemformintomultipleteamsof10to15.
2. Tellthefollowingtothegroup:Inyoursmallteams,verballycountupsequentially(asin1,2,
3,etc.)toanumberequalingthetotalnumberofpeopleinyourgroup.Youmustdothisina
randommanner.Youmaynotcreateapatterntohelpyoucountup.Teammemberssimply
announcethecorrectnumberinthesequencewhentheyhavetheintuitivesensetodoso.Each
personmayonlysayonenumber.Iftwopeoplesaythesamenumberatthesametimethegroup
muststartover.
Rules
1. Teammembersmustverballycountupsequentially(asin1,2,3,etc.)toanumberequalingthe
totalnumberofpeopleinyourgroup.
2. Thismustbedoneinarandommanner.Youmaynotcreateapatterntohelpyoucountup.
3. Eachpersonmayonlysayonenumber.
4. Iftwopeoplesaythesamenumberatthesametimethegroupmuststartover.
Comments
Thisisagoodactivitytofocusthegroupandhavethemworktowardsacommongoal.
1. Iliketousethisactivitytoenterintoadiscussionaboutthevalueofintuitionasitappliesto
buildinghighperformingteams.Ibelieveintuitionishighlyundevelopedinmostpeopleand
notvaluedenough.Ialsobelieveitspossibletodeveloponesintuitionwithpractice.
2. Towhatdegreedoweasateamvalueintuition?Howarewecurrentlyusingourintuition?
Theonlyrealvaluablethingisintuition.
AlbertEinstein
Variations
Askthegrouptocountashighastheycangobeforemakingamistake.Settheworldrecord.
History
IfirstlearnedthisactivityfrommasterfacilitatorJeffLong.
CEILING CLOCK
GroupSize:Individuals
Time:60seconds
SetUpTime:none
Props:none
Objective
Experiencehowonesperspectiveisvitallyimportanttounderstandingasituation.
SetUp/Preparation
1. Thisisanactivityfor1or1,000.Theparticipantcanbesittingdownorstandingup.
2. Haveparticipantsfirstimagineananalogclock(thekindofclockwithhandsonit)gluedtothe
ceilingabovethem.Nowimaginethesecondhandmovingaroundtheclock(inaclockwise
direction).
3. EachparticipantnowextendstheirarmandfingerandpointsattheclockANDTHENmakes
theirfingerfollowthemovementsofthesecondhand.You(theleader)shoulddemonstratethis
forthegroup.
4. Finally,havealltheparticipantslowertheirhandtochestlevelwhiletheykeeptheirfinger
pointingupattheclockANDcontinuemovingtheirfingerinthesamemotion(neverstopthe
motion).Theparticipantsshouldbelookingdownattheirfingertipnow(whichhasnever
stoppedmoving).Nowaskeveryonewhichdirectiontheirfingerismovingclockwiseor
counterclockwise?Theanswer:counterclockwise!
Rules
SeeSetup/Preparation(above)
Comments
Whenmostpeopledothisactivitytheyaresurprisedtofindtheirfingerstartsoffmovinginaclockwise
directionandthenmagicallyswitchestomovinginacounterclockwisedirection.Thekeyunderstanding
isthatthepersonsfingerhasNOTaltereditsdirectionduringthecourseoftheactivity.Whathas
changedistheindividualsperspectiveonthesituation.Atfirstthepersonwasbelowlookingupattheir
fingerandthen,theychangetheirperspectivetolookingdownontheirfinger.Whenourperspective
changes,everythingchanges.
IhaveawhitefemalefriendwhogrewupinSouthAfricaduringapartheid.Shenowspeaksatschools
aboutherexperiencegrowingupandthedaysherealizedwhatwasgoingonaroundherandhowshe
wantedjusticeandequalityforall.Apartheidhadntchangedyetitwasherthatchangeditwasher
perspectivethatchanged.Shebegantoseethingsfromanewstandpointandthatmadeallthedifference
intheworld.Whenspeakingtotheschoolgroups,shewantsheraudiencetounderstandthepowerof
perspectiveandsheleadsthestudentsinthisexercise.
Whatisthevalueofperspective?Whatcanwedotochangeourperspectiveandwhatdoweexpectto
happenwhenwedo?
QuotetoPonder
Youmustlookwithinforvalue,butmustlookbeyondforperspective.
DenisWaitley
History
Ilearnedthisactivitywhileattendingaconferenceoncreatingpersonalmissionstatements.
BANDANA CUP MARBLE

GroupSize:4to10peopleperbandana
AgeRange:Elementaryadult
Time:515minutes
SetUpTime:60seconds
Props:Foreachteamof610people:Oneplasticcup,onebandana,onemarble
Objective
Transportamarblebalancedonacupfromonepointtoanother.
SetUp/Preparation
Creategroupsofabout8peopleandsupplyeachgroupwithonebandana,onemarbleandoneplasticcup
(theplasticcupshouldhavesomekindofliponthebottomofit).Thegroupsurroundsthebandanaand
holdsontoitwithbothhandsalongtheedgescreatingatabletopeffective.Thecupisnowplacedup
sidedownonthebandanathenthemarbleisplacedontopof/balancedonthecup.Thegroupisnow
askedtotransportthebandanacupmarblefromonepointtoanother.
Rules
1. Ifthemarblefallsoffthegroupmuststartagain.
2. Everyonemustholdontotheedgeofthebandanawithbothhands.
3. Thebandanamustbekepttightandflat.
4. Thesuppliedequipment(props)maynotbealtered.
5. Noothersuppliesmaybeused.
Comments
Thisisagreatactivitytodowithasmallgroup(6people)orwithlargegroups(200+people).Itis
versatile,inexpensiveandeasilytransported.
Debriefing
Ionceledthisactivityataretreatforagroupofschoolsystemvolunteers(adults).Therewereabout30
peoplesoIhadthemforminto3groupsinoneofthemeetingrooms.Aftereveryonewassettogowith
theactivity,Iaskedthemtoplacetheirbandanacupmarbleassemblyonasmalltableinanadjacent
roomSIMULTANEOUSLY.Therewasonlyonedoorwayandtotheotherroomsotheteamswere
forcedtowaitoneachother.Thetablewassmallwhichforcedthegroupstocommunicateandcreatea
plan.Ihadeveryonecircleupintheirsmallgroupsandanswerthefollowingquestions:What
metaphoricallyisthebandana,cup,marble,andtablerelativetoyourjobinthisorganization?Igavethe
groups15minutestocreateapresentation,whichtheywouldbegivingtotheothergroups.Thegroup
lovedtheactivityandlovedthediscussionaswellasthepresentationsfromtheothersmallgroups.
Variations
1.
2.
3.
Placeobstaclesinthepathofthegroupsuchasatablesorchairs.Considerhavingthegroupgo
upaflightofstairs.
Useatallercupandalarger,denserball(likeabaseball)tomakethislotsharder.
Fillacupofwaterandbalanceitonthebandana.Ifyouwanttogetfolksreallywet,havethem
transportthecupbyholdingthebandanaabovetheirheads.
History
IlearnedthisactivityfromSamSikes,authorofExecutiveMarblesandFeedingtheZirconGorilla.
BACK WRITING
GroupSize:10100
SetUpTime:60seconds
Props:Markersandpaper
Objective
Successfullycommunicate(transmit)awrittenmessagethroughyourteam.
SetUp/Preparation
1. Createsmallgroupsof4or5peopleeach.Haveeachsmallgroupsitinchairs(oronthefloor)
inaline,onepersonbehindtheother.Providethepersonatthefrontofeachlinewithan8_x
11sheetofpaperandamarker.
2. Givethebiggroupthefollowingdirections:Inamoment,Imgoingtoaskthepersonatthe
backofeachsmallgrouptocometothefrontoftheroomwheretheywillwatchmedrawa
pictureonabigpieceofpaper.Onlythissmallgroupofpeoplewillbeallowedtoviewthe
picture.Oncetheyseethepicturetheywillreturntotheirseatswheretheywillthenusetheir
fingertodrawthesamepictureonthebackofthepersonsittinginfrontofthemwhowillthen
drawthepictureonthepersonsbackinfrontofthemwhowillthendrawthepictureonthe
backofthepersoninfrontofthemandsoon.Thepersonatthefrontofthelinewillthendraw
thepictureonthepieceofpaperusingthemarker.Onceeachteamisdone,wewillcompare
finaldrawingswiththeoriginaldrawing.
3. Keepthefirstpicturesimplelikeasmileyface.Afterthefirstround,havepeoplerotate
positionsintheirsmallgroupssoeveryonecangetachanceatbeingthefirstperson.See
Variationsbelowforsuggestionsonother(moredifficult)picturestodraw.
Rules
1. Peoplehaveonlyonechancetodrawthepictureonthebackofsomeoneelse.
2. Verbalcommunicationisnotallowed.
Comments
1. Thisactivityremindssomeofthechildrensgamecalledtelegraphwhereagroupof10or15
peoplesitinacircleandtheleaderwhispersashortstoryintotheearofthepersonsittingnextto
themwhothenwhispersthestoryintothepersonsearsittingnexttothem,andsoon.Bythe
timethestorygetsallthewayaroundthecircle,thestoryusuallysoundsnothinglikethe
originalstory.
2. Thisactivityrequirespeopletocommunicatethroughtouch.Itsastretchformostpeopletouse
thissenseinthisway(andstretchingisgood).
1. Iliketohavegroupsparticipateinthisactivityandthendiscuss(intheirsmallgroups)what
theyvefoundtobetrueaboutcommunicationasdemonstratedthroughthisactivity.Groups
willoftendiscussissuessuchastheimportanceofclarityandhowmessagesdeliveredwithgreat
carecangetturnedupsidedowninshortorder.
2. Occasionallytherewillbeapersonortwowhoattempttocheatbylookingattheirneighbors
toseehowtheyaredoing.Idontconcernmyselfwiththisbehaviorbecausewhatoften
happensistheyendupgettingerroneousinformation(i.e.theirneighborisdoingitwrong).
Thisprovidesforaninterestingdebrieftopic.
Variations
Iusethefollowingpicturesinthisorder(eachisharderthanitspredecessor):
Asthepicturesgetmoreadvanced,considerallowingthedrawerstomakemultipleattemptsatdrawing
onthebackofsomeone.Thiswilllikelyincreasethechanceofsuccess.
History
IfirstlearnedthisactivityfromJimCainwhoauthoredthebookTeamwork&Teamplay.
AThoughtForYou
Atruefriendissomeonewhosaysnicethingsbehindyourback.
annonymous
AIR LOCK
GroupSize:1020
AgeRange:highschooladult
SetUpTime:5minutes
Props:Twoboundaryropes,onebandanaperperson(totieankles),sixhoops.
Objective
Travelfromyourailingspacecrafttotherescuespacecraft.
SetUp/Preparation
1. Positiontwoboundaryropesonthegroundabout20feetapartasshowninthephoto.Placethe
sixhoopsonthegroundinazigzagpatternplacingthehoopsabout6inchesfromeachother.
2. Heresthestorytosharewiththegroup:Thespacecraftyourecurrentlyonhaslostallpower
andwillsoonbegindescendingintoEarthsatmosphere(thisisbad).Anotherspacecrafthas
beensenttorescueyourteam.Getyourteamtotherescueshipbeforetimerunsout.
3. Askthegrouptostandbehindoneoftheboundarylines(thisplacesthemintheailing
spaceship)andthenlineupshouldertoshoulder.Provideeachpersonwithapieceofcloth(I
useabandana)andaskthemtolooselytietheiranklestogether.
4. Askthegrouptotraveltotherescueshipfollowingtherulesbelow.
Rules
1. Theboundaryropesandhoopsmaynotbemoved.
2. Thegroupmustremaininalinewithanklestiedthroughouttheactivity.
3. Steppingoutsideofthehoopswhiletravelingtotherescueshipisnotpermitted.
4. Nootherequipmentmaybeused.
5. Violationofarulemayresultinapenalty.(Example:touchesoutsideofthehoopswillrequire
theteamtostartover)
SafetyWarning
1. Peoplewithknee,ankleorbackinjuriesshouldnotparticipate.
2. Usesoftclothtotieanklestogetherandtielooselytopreventinjuries.
3. Itsimportantforthegrouptomoveslowsonoonegetshurt.
Comments
1. Thisactivityisbestleftforgroupsthatarepatient.Donotattemptthisactivitywitha
rambunctioushyperactivegroup.
2. Thegroupmovementwillremindyouofacentipede.
3. Thisactivityemphasizescommunication,carefulsteadymovementandteamcoordination.
4. Justforfun,playthesoundtrackofthemovie2001ASpaceOdysseywhilethegrouptravels
fromonespaceshiptotheother.
Priortostartingtheactivity,havethegroupidentifythespaceshiptheyareleavingbehind
metaphoricallythisshiprepresentsallthattheynolongerneedand/orthosethingsthatnolongerserve
them.Alsoidentifytherescueshipanditsqualities.Whatdothehoopsrepresent?Whatdothe
bandanasrepresent?
Variations
1. Supplythegroupwithalimitedamountoftimetocompletethetask(example:20minutes).
2. Givetwoorthreepeopleabandanatoblindfoldthemselvesforpartoralloftheactivity.
3. Dividetheteaminhalf.Onegroupstartsononesideandonegroupstartsontheother.The
groupsmustswitchplacesbeforetimerunsout.(Willtheyworktogetheroragainsteachother?)
4. Dothisactivityinaroomthatyoucanturnthelightsoffsoastomakeitcompletelydark.Warn
thegroupthatyoumightturnthelightsoffduringtheactivity.Ifyoudoturnthelightsoff,keep
themoffforashorttime(5to10seconds).
History
ThisgamewastaughttomebyaninternwhenIworkedfortheYMCA.
AINT NO FLIES ON ME
GroupSize:2050(andmore!)
AgeRange:middleschooladult
Time:30minutes(withdebrief)
SetUp:Time:60seconds
Props:Lineontheground
Objective
Getthepersonacrossfromyouonyoursideoftheline.
SetUp/Preparation
1. Createalineonthegroundusingrope,tapeorstring.Thelineneedstobeaslongasthegroup
iswide(seebelow).
2. Dividethegroupinhalfwiththegroupsstandingonoppositesidesoftheline.Eachgroupis
twolargepacesawayfromtheline.
3. Everyonemustgetapartnerthepersondirectlyacrossthelinefromhimorher.Ifyouhavean
oddnumberofpeoplethenhavethreepeopleworkingtogether.
Rules
1. Becauseofthenatureofthisactivity,therearentanyrulesperse.InsteadIwillofferthe
followingdescription:
2. You(theleader)standattheendofline(side)Aandtellthisgrouptorepeatwhatyouareabout
tosay:Thereaintnofliesonme!(theyrepeatwhilepointingatthemselves).Then,withabit
moreemphasis,ThereAINTnofliesonme!(theyrepeatwhilepointingatthemselves).
TheremightbefliesonYOU!(theyrepeatwhilepointingattheirpartnerontheothersideof
theline).Butthereaintnofliesonme!(theyrepeatwhilepointingatthemselves).Thenyou
saytothisgroup(thisside)Goodjob!Nowtakeonebigstepforward!(thissidestepsforward
towardthelineasagroup).
3. IthenwalkovertotheothersidelineBandproceedtorepeatthesameprocesswiththis
group(i.e.Thereaintnofliesonme).ButbeforeIstart,IlookatthemandsayYouarent
goingtotakethatareyou?(Impurposefullyeggingthemonjustalittle).JustlikelineA,I
havelineBtakeonebigstepforwardaftertheyhavecompletedsayingalloftheAintnoflies
phrases.
4. IthenreturntorepeattheentireprocesswithLineA.Beforestarting,IattempttoeggonlineA
onemoretimebysayingsomethinglikeOK.Thisisyourlasttime.Donttakethatfrom
them!Whentheyaredone,IhavelineAtaketheirfinalbigstepuptotheline.Atthispoint
everyoneinlineAisstandingwiththeirtoestotheline.
5. IthenreturntolineBforthefinaltimeandgothroughtheAintnofliesonmesequence
again.Beforestarting,IattempttoeggonlineAonemoretimebysayingsomethinglikeOK.
Thisisyourlastchance.Donttakethatfromthem!
6. FINALLYWhenbothlineAandlineBarefacingeachothertoetotoeatthelineIquickly
announcetothegroupthefollowing:Yournextsetofdirectionsareasfollowsasquicklyas
youcan,getthepersonacrossfromyouonyoursideoftheline!Go!Whatusuallyensues9
timesoutof10isatugowarpullingsessionbetweenpartners.Iletthemayhem(thepulling)
goonforabout5seconds;ifyouletitgoontoolongsomeonemightgethurt.
SafetyWarning
1. Haveparticipantsremoverings,watchesandbraceletsbeforethisactivitybecausepeoplewill
inevitablystartpullingeachotherbythewristswhichmaycausedamagetovaluables.
2. Ifyouhaveparticipantswithweakbacks,shoulders,etc.donotdothisactivity.
Comments
1.
Itshardtofindanactivitythatproducesamoredramaticeffectthanthisoneespeciallyin
regardstopointingouttheeffectsofloseloseandwinlosethinking(asopposedtowinwin
thinking).
2. Ionceledthisactivitywithagroupof200classroomteachers.Ihad100ononesideofavery
longlineand100oftheteachersontheothersideoftheline.Thoughthisdidwork,I
recommendbreakingalargegrouplikethisintosmallergroupsof50(25oneachsideofthe
line)thisrequiresabigspaceandmultiplelinesontheground.
1. Withagroupof30peopledoingthisactivity(15oneithersideoftheline)thereisusuallyone
pairthatdoesntenduppullingandtuggingoneachother.Pullingandtuggingisalmostalways
whatIseewhenIleadthisactivity.Theneatthingispullingandtuggingisnotnecessaryto
win.
2. Therearereallytwoactivitieshappeninghere.ThefirstisthesetupwhereImgettingpeople
riledupwiththewholeaintnofliesthing.Iusethisasabuilduptothefinalsetof
instructionswhichisYournextsetofdirectionsareasfollowsasquicklyasyoucan,getthe
personacrossfromyouonyoursideoftheline!Go!LikeIsaid,thenormalreactiontothisset
ofdirectionsistopullonespartnerontotheirsideoftheline,whichcreatesaWinLose
scenario(thewinnerbeingtheonewhosuccessfullypulledtheirpartnerontotheirside).
3. ThereisaWinWinscenario:thepartnerscalmlystepoverthelinesimultaneously.
Rememberthedirections?Towin,allthatmusthappenisformypartnertocrossovertoMY
sideoftheline.ItdoesntmatterwhereImstandinginorderformetowin.Thisrealization
rarelyhappensintheheatofbattle.
4. Nowaboutthissetupissue.YesIdopurposelyattempttogetthetwolinesagitatedwith
thewholeaintnofliesthing.IproposethatLifesetsusuponadailybasis.Youmakethe
determinationarethefollowingsituationssetupsforconfrontationandWinLose
scenarios?Palestiniansv.IsraelisBlackvs.WhiteMuslimvs.ChristianMalevs.Female
Wealthyvs.PoorDemocratsvs.Republicans
5. Sometimespeoplefinishthisactivityandareabitembarrassedathowtheyreacted,wishing
theyhadrecognizedthesituationimmediatelyasanopportunitytopracticeWinWin.WhatI
offertothegroupisthatweasaculture(intheUS)seeandexperienceWinLoseandLose
LosewaymorefrequentlythanWinWin.Allittakesisturningonthetelevisionoropeninga
newspaperandtryingtolookforWinWindescribedinthemajormedia(itshardtofind).I
suggestthatlookingforWinWinrequiresaconsciouseffort,atleastatfirst.
History
IlearnedthisactivityfrommasterfacilitatorEarlDavis.
http://www.iatfcommunity.com/blogs/1
http://www.iatfcommunity.com/forum
http://www.iatfcommunity.com/forum/2?&page=2
http://www.iatfcommunity.com/forum/topic/28
http://www.teachmeteamwork.com/t
eachmeteamwork/member-benefitsjoin.html
http://www.iafworld.org/AboutIAF/JoinRenew.aspx
http://www.different.com.mx/progra
ma-empresarial/build-a-team/
http://www.different.com.mx/progra
ma-empresarial/tabtour-different/
http://www.different.com.mx/empres
as/dinamicas-integracion/
http://www.teachmeteamwork.com/

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Team Building Games 101

Team Building Games 101 is filled with experiential

Willow in the Wind

I learned this activity from master team builder Viva Pizer.

Intensity: Mental=1, Physical=2

1. I love this activity because its so effective in providing a trust building

What are the attributes of a good car?

TRUST CIRCLE SIT

Working as a team, sit in the lap of the person behind you.

1. Players must stand on a spot marker unless they are moving.

TOUCH THE BALL

Everyone must touch the ball at the same time.

TENNIS BALL MADNESS

TEAM BUILD A Word

Create words using letters on index cards.

round 3 into our daily life?

Group Size: Individuals or teams of 2

Group Size: 2-4 people per team

the clouds? Lay first the foundation of humility.

MOUSE TRAP TRUST

1.This is an optional activity. Dont do what you dont want to do.

M&M ARM WRESTLING

JUMP ROPE RECORD

Group Size: Groups of 6

A good knot on a bad rope is no better than a bad knot.

Index Card Challenge

BANDANA CUP MARBLE

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