The group must construct a tunnel made from Toobeez.
Materials
Setup
Group Size: 4 to 8
Time: 30-60 minutes
Space: Medium
1. Arrange the participants so half are on each side of the table(s).
2. Orient the participants to each other and open with a brief discussion about the importance of needing other people in our lives to help meet our goals. Have participants give examples of how they currently help each other.
3. When they are ready, introduce the storyline:
Your group is on a trip to Rocky Caverns, a popular vacation resort when a rockslide occurs blocking the opening to the outside. Help is on the way, but the rescue team is not sure where you are located. If you could build a small tunnel out of the materials you have, you could yell to the outside so the rescue team could find you. You are in close quarters, and you do not have much time! When completed, yell, “We did it!” so the rescue workers will know where to find you!
4. Read the Activity Challenge Box to the group.
Activity Challenge: The group must construct a tunnel made from Toobeez.
5. Allow participants to plan and problem solve together while constructing their tunnel. Participants can build any tunnel structure that solves their problem. They do not have to build the exact structure in the pictures.
6. Hand-over-hand intervention may be necessary for some participants. Assist participants who may have difficulty with handling the Toobeez.
7. Encourage the group with verbal suggestions (if necessary) to keep the group engaged.
8. If your group is struggling, or if you feel your group would benefit from an additional challenge, present a variation provided below.
9. After the activity, move to the “Activity Discussion and Processing” section.
Here are the available Teambuilding Training Options.
1. Solve the challenge without communication.
If this seems too easy, try having the group attempt their tunnel construction without verbal and/or written communication.
2. Have participants use one hand each.
This really demands teamwork and teaches humility. This variation is challenging, but perfect, when working with someone who may have lost the use of an arm or hand, making it an even playing surface.
3. Have one person give directions.
Have the group select a leader to give directions to the team to construct the tunnel. The leader is the only group member who can speak.
4. Blindfold the group.
For a real challenge, blindfold the group while they attempt the activity.
5. Compete with teams.
Divide a set of Toobeez in half and have the two teams compete.
6. Limit the Toobeez.
Provide only certain Toobeez pieces to the participants.
7. Build big!
Use the larger Toobeez from two sets of Toobeez to build a tunnel large enough for the group to travel through and “escape.” Safety Note: Be sure the tunnel is secure if people are going to travel through it. To be safe, have therapists or able participants hold the tunnel to brace it.
8. Have a time limit.
Determine the number of Toobeez and have a time limit within which participants must work.
Appropriate caution is important to conduct activities in a safe manner. Be sure to review these reminders prior to beginning the activity, and share reminders with the group if necessary.
Helpful Hints
The effectiveness of the group process will often determine the outcome for the participant. These are only suggested questions to begin the discussion. Select the ones you feel will best benefit your group. Make sure to let everyone share their ideas, and remind participants that everyone’s feelings are important!
Suggested questions for processing:
