How to Build Ice Breakers

Using an ice breaker is a great way to start a meeting, help people feel comfortable around each other and help build a team's camaraderie. If you have never done an ice breaker before, it can be a bit of an overwhelming task, especially if you consider how many different types of ice breakers and team building activity suggestions are available on the Internet. There are several things you should consider when selecting an ice breaker, and by making an informed decision you should choose an effective activity well-suited for your participants.

Instructions

How to Build Ice Breakers

1. Research different types of ice breaker activities. You can find a number of suggestions for ice breakers on the Internet. Check out the site wilderdom.com/games/Icebreakers.html for a long list of different types of ice breakers you can orchestrate.

2. Consider the ages and abilities of the people participating in your ice breaker. You would probably not want to choose the same type of ice breaker for a group of children as you would for a group of senior citizens. Make sure your selection is appropriate to the physical abilities of your group as well. You may want a more stationary activity for older adults while young children may benefit from an active ice breaker to help them get their energy out.

3. Make sure your ice breaker is appropriate for the number of participants as well as the amount of time you have allotted. An ice breaker that involves personal introductions may take 20 minutes with a group of eight but could end up being over an hour with a group of 20. Your ice breaker could overtake your meeting if not planned out appropriately, and the last thing you want to do is cut someone's turn off due to lack of time.

4. Know the resources needed to run your ice breaker, including the amount of space you will need. If your ice breaker involves people moving around, it may not be appropriate for a meeting in a small office. Also, be prepared with other resources you may need such as paper and pens.

5. Make sure you can clearly explain the ice breaker so all the participants will be able to easily understand what is being asked of them. Confusion among participants will not help the breaking of the proverbial ice.

Tips & Warnings

• You may want to do ice breakers for several weeks if a group of new people will be meeting on a consistent basis.