Spider Web Activity
Objectives
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To open or close a training session in a sharing way.
To help members get to know the members in their group.
To brainstorm a new thought in a safe environment.
Supplies
1 ball of yarn
Scissors
Pillow (or similar item)
Time
10 minutes
Program
Step 1:
Begin by communicating the purpose for the activity (introductions, sharing expectations, feedback, etc.) A
large spider web of yarn is formed as participants toss the ball of yarn to each other. Communicate constraints yarn cannot be tossed to a person next to you. The first participant tosses the ball of yarn to another participant,
being sure to hold onto the end. The ball must be tossed "over" to avoid getting tangled. Participants share
requested information as they toss the ball of yarn. The procedure continues until all participants have caught
and thrown the ball of yarn and are “connected" through the web.
Step 2: (Optional) Place a pillow on the web to represent the teamwork needed from the group to keep the
organization working towards its goals. As a group leader, ask the group what might compromise the group
(e.g., not following through with a task, not coming prepared to a meeting, etc.). Walk around and cut some of
the web after each comment is spoken. At some point, the pillow will fall. Discuss how we need to take an
active role in our organization to make sure the goals/responsibilities do not fall.