Login
Two flags waving depicting the Unofficial Start

Unofficial Start

Strategies that facilitate early engagement & interaction.

  • Simple
  • Engaging
  • Leverages idle time
  • Promotes connections
  • Tons of options

Step-by-Step Instructions

Resources Premium

How To Play Narrative Premium

Practical Leadership Tips Premium

Social-Emotional Learning Premium

Health & Wellness Programming Premium

Popular Variations Premium

Virtual Adaptation Premium

You Might Also Like... Premium

Useful Framing Ideas Premium

Reflection Tips & Strategies Premium

Source Premium

Contributor

Add your Comments...

Have you played this activity? What worked, what didn't work? What type of group? Do you have useful advice for other users? Do you know a fun variation?

Comments (4)

  1. Sean de Morton

    I agree! No matter that you use or whether the audience is a group of adults or schools students, the Unofficial Start sets up the program ahead for success from the beginning. This strategy alone has yielded some incredible results and I cannot recommend it’s use enough!

  2. Emily

    I agree. Mark has helped me completely shift the way I “start” programs, namely with staff, and staff are no longer late! I carry a bag of rope with me EVERYWHERE. Thank you.

    • Mark Collard

      This si so great to hear Emily, well played. Unofficial starts just make so much sense, and if for no other reason, they can be fun 🙂

  3. David Piang-Nee

    Have had the opportunity of observing Mark do this a few times now and it is amazing to watch how this works. As Mark welcomes and guides or participants slide in and guide themselves to the activities are fantastic. With a few puzzles, cards and other self-led activities, it becomes enough and easy for the group to start as they focus on the task rather than awkwardly engaging with each other. Just a little bit of pre-planning and some props is just what’s required and the magic just happens

No Props No Problem

Brand NEW book featuring 150+ outrageously fun group games & activities. Scan QR codes to connect to tons of digital content including video tutorials.

Add to Cart
Free eBook:
Top Ten Icebreakers & Group Games

Download our free 28-page ebook jam-packed with outrageously fun activity ideas.