Changes

Icebreakers can be a positive addition to a training session by energizing the group, initiating creative thinking, and encouraging involvement. This practice provides guidelines for using icebreakers.

Action For an icebreaker activity to be effective, it should be well designed and linked to training objectives. A good icebreaker: • Should not last longer than ten minutes if it is the opening activity; an icebreaker at other points during the training tends to have an optimal length of 15 to 30 minutes • Encourages trust and cooperation within a small group or the entire group of members -- some icebreakers should be cooperative rather than competitive • Makes the group feel challenged, but not uncomfortable • Is a team building experience and involves all members • Initiates conversations and interactions • Increases the respect and liking of other group members • Shows interesting new things about people who have known each other for some time • Reflects your members' diverse needs. Select an activity that is appropriate to your groups' age level, physical mobility, or personal interest • Is appropriate for your group's stage of development • Ties the activity to the session topic • Fits your training session design; for instance, if you need smaller groups to be formed later in the training, use the icebreaker to accomplish this • Fits the training location Use icebreakers: • At the beginning of pre-service training to help members become acquainted and begin the session with a fun activity • After lunch to avoid the mid-afternoon fatigued feeling • After a difficult or intense session to release tension • After assigning members to work with people they do not know well to facilitate group interaction

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[[Category:Icebreakers/Warmups]]