One of the easiest ways to build connection in a group is by using learning and using each other’s names! In this icebreaker, participants have the opportunity to challenge their memory, stay on their toes and laugh along the way.
Time Needed: 10 minutes
Group Size: 6+ (Ideal with larger groups!)
Materials: None
Directions: Gather your group in a circle. Tell them they are about to play a game that allows for name recall and a little bit of competitiveness.
Phase 1: Have the participants go around the circle and introduce themselves. Once they are done introducing themselves, ask the participants to find an imaginary spot on the ground inside the circle and to look at it.
Then instruct them that when you announce, “LOOK UP!” Each person is to look up and directly into the face of another participant. If they do not make eye contact with another person, they stay still. If they make eye contact with another participant, they are to point and shout the name of that participant. Then you will announce, “LOOK DOWN,” and the whole group will look down at their imaginary spot on the ground. Play this way for several rounds to give everyone a chance to make eye contact and shout.
Phase 2: If time permits, split your group into two equal circles, and modify the game so that when participants make eye contact, they still shout the other participant’s name, but whoever shouts the name first will now join the other circle. Play this way until time is up, applauding and cheering for the circles.
Debrief Questions:
- How did it feel when someone looked at you and said your name correctly?
- Why is it important that we know and use each other’s names? (What message does it send when someone remembers and uses your name?)
- How might using each other’s names help us build trust and respect in this group?
- What challenges came up when trying to recall names quickly, and how can we overcome those in real-life settings?