Brand New Activities

Wow, I’ve been so busy I can’t believe it’s been almost 3 months since I uploaded a new activity to the database.

Now, to be fair, I am updating and adding new content to the existing database of 520+ fun group games & activities on a weekly basis, but only this week have I actually uploaded brand new activities.

Here are three activities I want to highlight especially because I love them so much. I hope you do too.

Positive-Negative

I think one of the most powerful lessons I learned as a young person was that only I control what I think and how I feel. Yes, events and people around me can often influence my thinking and feelings, but at the end of the day, how I manage my mindset is up to me. This simple, yet deceptively powerful exercise for pairs or small groups is easy to present and can be a lot of fun for those involved. By all means, enjoy it for the sheer joy and silliness it may bring to your group, but if you have the time, do consider asking your group to reflect on the lesson embedded in this game.

Blind Maze

Now, admittedly, this one is best set up outside and takes a bit of work to prepare in advance, but it’s really worth it. If you have access to a heavily wooded area, all you need is a bunch of long ropes and some creativity and you’ll be able to set up a wonderfully challenging maze for your group to encounter. I’ve been using this activity for 30+ years, and my vivid memories of my own first-hand experience guide my presentation of this unique group initiative every time.

Five Senses

This is another simple, yet powerful exercise I have used on rare occasions that harks back to my novice days as a young facilitator. I learned it from a trainer I was working with at the time and, again, I still hold vivid memories of my experience. If you’re looking to heighten the sensations of a particular experience, spend a couple of minutes in advance with this exercise. I expect this simple framing will enrich and deepen the social and emotional experience of your group for the better.

In terms of other brand-new activities, there are two more you should check out as well – Tweener and Geared Up.

Well worth a look if you’re looking to ramp up the energy of your group and have some fun.

Contributor Mark