Youth brainstorm a list of activists, leaders, philosophers, philanthropists, and others who have made a difference in their communities and/or the world. They identify the accomplishments, list favorite quotes, and create images and videos they feel represent each individual in a wall or digital display. Youth discuss how things would be different if the individuals …
A fun and physical activity that encourages teamwork and collaboration. You will need an even number of youth to participate, ideally close to 10. Find a straight line on the ground (or make one with tape) and have all youth stand on the line. Number each person in standing order from 1-10. The object of …
To create an autobiographical story, start with the problem, tension, conflict or personal realization that will serve as the heart of the story. Then work backwards by describing the setting (place & time) and characters. Develop the story forward by describing significant life events leading up to the climax. Then resolve the problem, tension or …
A fun, noncompetitive game that clearly demonstrates concentration, cooperation, and commitment. You will need a large indoor or outdoor space and many bean bags (or other items safe to throw and catch). Youth form a large circle, and they are paired up in teams of two. Each youth must remember their partner throughout the game. …
Using bigger than, less than, or equal signs, role-play different scenarios the youth face on a day to day basis to evaluate whether or not a situation feels “equal.” If the situation doesn’t feel equal have them use, write, or state the bigger than or less than sign to determine who holds the power. Have …
This is a fun game that emphasizes clear communication, listening skills, and teamwork. Choose a large indoor or outdoor area and divide youth into two groups. You will need blindfolds for every person except for two. Place the groups at opposite ends of the space, and all people wear a blindfold except for one on …
The brain alternates between various cycles (high and low) and hemispheres (left and right) throughout the day. To boost energy, enhance wellness, or get youth unstuck, provide brain breaks such as: physical activity, stretching, creative body movements, team-building exercises, sports, games, and free time. Brain breaks have the ability to reduce errors and stimulate learning; …
A collaborative outdoor activity in which youth are challenged to build a shelter with a limited number and type of materials (ie. no more than 20 items) and within a designated amount of time. They must work in small groups, and all opinions are welcome and encouraged. The shelter does not need to be “attractive” …
It is really important to celebrate both small and large successes, honor the people involved, maintain momentum, and continue to inspire improvement. Remember to build celebrations into your budget and calendar, and make them fun and engaging.
Revisit an event that ended with a less than desirable outcome. Encourage youth to create their own alternative endings. Why did they make the choices that they made? How have the outcomes changed positively as a result of those choices? What was difficult about those choices?
While doing creative writing, have youth investigate the people involved in their storyboards. What types of people were involved? What do you think they were thinking and feeling? Encourage the identification of at least three divergent perspectives and interests. Young people can do the same with poetry, prose, or film. What are additional perspectives that …
Includes four steps: 1) Connect, 2) Ground, 3) Practice, and 4) Reflect. Group members must be as diverse as possible, there must be a shared purpose and expected outcome, and all decision-making must be mutual (avoidance of hierarchies).
