TEAM BUILDERS

STAND UP

(medium activity level) Try this one in pairs first, then 3's, then 4's, then masses'? Sit on the ground, back-to-back with your partner(s), knees bent and elbows linked. Ready? Stand up! See? - Easy!! Remember to sit very closely packed for the Mass stand-ups, and stand up quickly and at exactly the same moment.

KNOTS

(medium activity level) Players stand in a circle, facing in, and reach hands into the center. Join hands with two different people, neither of whom are standing next to you, and now, your have a human knot. Your goal is to get untangled!

Sometimes groups have difficulty, having two people release their hands creates ends and moves the activity along much faster. You may also get two or even three interlocking circles. Be watchful, groups can spend a considerable amount of time without a solution.

TAFFY PULL

(high activity level) Players split into two equal sized groups of about 5 or 6 players. One group is the taffy, and the other is the taffy pulling machine. The taffy players sit in a circle and hold onto each other (cohesiveness is the key), and pick a flavor to chant (e.g., "Butterscotch, Butterscotch, . . .”), Once the taffy is set, the pullers try to pull it into human-sized pieces. Remember: The best taffy is made by firm but gentle pull, so don't yank.

LAP SIT

(low activity level) Players stand shoulder-to-shoulder in circle facing in. Everyone turns to the right and tighten up the circle by taking side steps toward the center. Close all gaps and round all corners. Place your hands on the hips in front of you, and as the leader counts to 3, carefully guide that person's bottom onto your lap. Listen for instructions from the leader and follow them, This game requires trust and trustworthiness. Variation: take a step on the count of 3 ("one, two three, left, one, two, three, right. . .)

TRUST CIRCLE

(high activity level - high risk) Players stand in a circle shoulder-to-shoulder with one player standing in the center with her arms crossed on her chest. The players in the circle hold up their hands and catch and gently pass the center person as she lets herself fall back (her body remains rigid).

TRUST WALK

(medium activity level - high risk) Players form a line by joining hands. Everyone closes her eyes except the front person and the end person. The leader takes the group on a walk. The directions must be passed down the line. Variations: This can also be done in pairs - one partner eyes open, one partner eyes closed.