Activity: Web Game
Objective: This introductory activity provides youth with a visual representation of community and connection, showing how each person plays a meaningful role in the group. As individual pieces come together, youth can see that they are not alone in their grief and gain a tangible reminder of the support, belonging, and shared strength found within the group.
Supplies:
- One large, colorful skein of yarn rolled into a ball
Instructions:
- Have all participants stand or sit in a circle, including the facilitator.
- The group leader holds the ball of yarn, introduces themselves and answers an introductory prompt (e.g. Favorite food, color, book).
- Holding tightly to the loose end of the yarn, the leader tosses or rolls the ball across the circle to another group member.
- The person who catches the ball shares their name and answers the same prompt. Then, they hold onto a piece of the string and toss the remaining ball to someone else in the group.
- This continues until every person is holding a piece of yarn and a “web” is formed at the center of the circle.
- Note: Honor the “right to pass” while encouraging openness and participation.
Sample Question Prompts:
- What is your name, age/grade, and your favorite food?
- Name 1 thing that makes you unique?
- Who are you remembering?
- What is one thing that makes you happy or gives you strength?
- One thing you are hoping to gain from being in group?
Thank you, Kelly Petersohn, from Camp Erin Online for developing & sharing this activity!
