Blindfold Build Activity

Objective: Students will practice clear communication and trust by verbally guiding a blindfolded partner to build a simple structure with cards.

Materials Needed:

• Blindfold (one per pair)
• Card sets (3–5 index cards or playing cards per pair)
• Timer or stopwatch

Setup:

1. Arrange the classroom so each pair has a clear workspace on a table or desk.
2. Distribute blindfolds and card sets to each pair.
3. Explain safety rules and the purpose of the activity.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Pair Up & Role Assignment (1 minute)
   • Have students form pairs and decide roles: Guide (sighted) and Builder (blindfolded).
2. Blindfold & Position (1 minute)
   • The Builder puts on the blindfold and sits facing the workspace. The Guide stands or sits beside them.
3. Guided Building (4 minutes)
   • On “Go,” the Guide gives only verbal instructions (no touching) to help the Builder stack cards into a small tower or simple shape.
   • Encourage specific language: e.g., “Place the card flat on top of the left edge,” “Move the card two inches to the right.”
4. Role Switch & Repeat (4 minutes)
   • After 4 minutes, pause the timer, have partners switch roles, remove and reapply blindfolds, and start again for 4 minutes.

Safety Tips:

• Ensure the workspace is free of obstacles or sharp objects.
• Remind Guides not to physically touch or move the Builder’s hands.
• Use soft, lightweight cards to avoid injury.

Variations & Extensions:

• Time Challenge: Award points for completing the most stable tower within the time limit.
• Three-Person Teams: Add an observer who notes effective guiding phrases and offers feedback.
• Different Materials: Use blocks or LEGO bricks instead of cards for older groups.

Reflection Prompts (Debrief as a Group):

• What specific instructions helped you the most?
• How did it feel to trust someone else’s directions?
• What challenges did you face communicating clearly?
• How can you use these communication and trust skills in other situations?

Use these questions to guide a 3-5 minute discussion after the activity. Encourage all students to share one insight.

Pass the Compliment Ball Game Guide

Objective:

• Foster positivity and social awareness by practicing sincere, specific compliments.
• Build confidence and reinforce relationship skills through peer encouragement.

Materials Needed:

• 1 soft foam ball (lightweight and easy to catch)

Setup (2 minutes):

1. Have students stand or sit in a circle, spaced comfortably apart.
2. Explain that when they catch the ball, they will give a compliment to the person who threw it.

Instructions (10 minutes):

1. Demonstration (1 minute)
   • Model a gentle toss and a sample compliment: “I like how you listened to my instructions!”
   • Emphasize making eye contact and using a friendly tone.
2. Gameplay
   • Start by tossing the ball to a volunteer.
   • When a student catches the ball, they hold it, look at the thrower, and give a genuine compliment (e.g., “I appreciate how patient you are!”).
   • The thrower acknowledges the compliment (“Thank you!”) and tosses the ball to someone new.
   • Continue until every student has both thrown and caught the ball at least once.

Tips for Sincere Compliments:

• Be specific: mention a behavior or quality you noticed.
• Use “I” statements: “I noticed that you…” or “I appreciate when you…”
• Keep it positive and honest.
• Make eye contact and smile.

Variations & Extensions:

• Speed Round: Give shorter compliments within a 1–2 second time limit.
• Challenge Compliments: Encourage compliments about teamwork or problem-solving.

Reflection Prompt (3 minutes):

• What did it feel like to receive a compliment?
• How did giving compliments change how you see your classmates?

Team Reflection Questions

Use the prompts below to think about and write your reflections on today’s session. Be honest and specific in your answers.

1. What strategies helped your partner guide you most effectively during the Blindfold Build Activity?

1. How did it feel to give and receive compliments in the Pass the Compliment Ball Game?

1. What is one way you can practice trust and positivity with your classmates tomorrow?

1. Which teamwork skill (listening, encouraging, respecting) will you focus on improving, and why?