Beach Ball Questions

How to Play

Setup

1. Prepare questions: Write 20–40 ice breaker prompts around a beach ball using permanent marker. Space them out so a thumb can land clearly on a question. Mix light and slightly deeper prompts (e.g., hidden talents, favorite childhood memory, a place you’d love to live, a lesson from a tough job).
2. In-person materials: 1–2 inflatable beach balls (20–24 in), permanent markers, and an open area with room to stand in a circle or spread out. For groups of 25+, consider two balls or multiple circles.
3. Virtual materials: A shared list of questions numbered 1–40, a digital spinner or random number generator, and a slide or doc visible to all. Optional: a wheel with participant names.
4. Brief participants: Explain that the goal is to energize the group and help people get to know one another in a low-pressure way.

How to Play

1. Demonstrate: Toss the ball to a volunteer. Wherever their right thumb lands, they read that question aloud and answer in 30–60 seconds. If it lands on a seam/blank spot, they choose the nearest readable question.
2. Start the round: The catcher answers, then gently tosses to someone who hasn’t gone yet. Keep throws chest-level and to people who are ready.
3. Keep it moving: Aim for 6–10 answers per 10 minutes to maintain energy. Applause or quick appreciations after each share keeps the vibe positive.
4. Virtual option: Use the spinner or RNG to select a question number. The facilitator calls on a participant (or uses a name wheel) to answer. Share the question on screen or in chat. Rotate to new people until time.
5. Large groups: Split into smaller circles or virtual breakout rooms (8–12 each) with their own ball/spinner. Bring everyone back for a quick whole-group debrief.

Rules

1. Right-thumb rule: Answer the question your right thumb touches; if unclear, pick the nearest legible one.
2. One skip allowed: Anyone may pass once without explanation. Additional passes are okay if needed for psychological safety.
3. Timebox shares: 30–60 seconds per answer to keep the pace lively and ensure many voices.
4. Respect and confidentiality: Listen actively, no side conversations, and avoid judgment. What’s shared stays in the group.
5. Safe tossing: Gentle, below-shoulder throws. Don’t toss to someone not making eye contact or with hands full. Offer seated catching or handoffs if preferred.
6. Inclusion: Avoid prompts that probe sensitive topics (politics, finances, trauma). Use inclusive language and examples.

Tips

• Calibrate energy: Light background music (low volume) boosts momentum; pause it for deeper questions.
• Curate prompts: Blend fun, reflective, and work-friendly topics. Print a backup list for clarity.
• Facilitate equality: Track who’s spoken; invite quieter voices early. In virtual, spotlight speakers and encourage reactions.
• Accessibility: Share questions on slides/chat; use large fonts and high-contrast ink. Allow hand-raises instead of catching.
• Debrief quickly: Ask, “What surprised you?” or “What did you learn about the team?” to reinforce connection.

Variations

1. Theme rounds: Culture/values, travel, beginner’s mind, wins and lessons, seasonal/holiday.
2. Speed round: 20–30 seconds per answer; increase toss frequency for a quick energy boost.
3. Pair-and-share: Catcher discusses with a partner for 60 seconds, then shares one highlight with the group.
4. Hot-potato music: Play music while tossing; when it stops, the holder answers. Use gently to avoid stress.
5. Points for play: Award points for creative answers or connections found; keep tone friendly, not competitive.
6. Hybrid: In-room group uses the ball; remote attendees use a spinner. Alternate between room and virtual speakers.