Monster Walk
Divide the group into groups of six or seven. Tell them that they need to get from one end of the room to the other using six or seven body parts as appropriate while staying together – so if they all hop, that counts as seven body parts (one leg each). Next ask them to […]
The Power of Words
Reasons to do this activity: What to do Ask the Pioneers if they think that the old rhyme ‘Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me’ is true? Are there words that wound? Do words really have any power? Ask the Pioneers to write down words on pieces of cards […]
Ten Pioneer Bowling
Ask ten Pioneers to stand in a ten-pin bowling formation (like a triangle) in rows of four, three, two and one. Ask the group to change the top and bottom of the pyramid by only moving three people. Lead a discussion about teamwork:
Lava Pit
Tell the group that they are escaping a dragon’s lair and must cross a steaming pit of lava to get away. They need to get from one side of the room to the other but can only step on the stepping stones provided. The space that the Elfins need to cross must be considerably longer […]
Follow My Leader
Group game, one child leads an action and another child has to guess the “leader”
One two Three
Counting to three is not always easy
Conflict Onion
This activity focuses on introducing young people to the ‘onion model’ of conflict analysis. It will help individuals understand how to use the model in analysing conflict. The conflict onion will introduce critical thinking and a better understanding of the difference between positions, interests and needs in a conflict.
The battle for the orange
Children compete for possession of an orange and discuss how to resolve conflicts.
Peace Potato
Everybody stands in a circle. Throw the beanbag around the circle saying ‘Peace.’ Throw the beanbag in a peaceful way. After a few throws the person throwing the beanbag can choose a different word, eg ‘Angry’– throw the beanbag in an angry way (no hurting!). If the throwing gets out of hand, someone can call […]
Human Pyramid
This is always good fun! Divide the group into two teams and tell them that they are going to build a human pyramid. Give them about five minutes to discuss how they are going to do this.Then get each team, in turn to build their human pyramid! Afterwards have a discussion about tactics: Listening and […]
Elfin Takeover
Planning their own group night
Curse of the Burnout
This activity helps young people understand burnout and how to avoid it. Recommended for Pioneers and older. A Woodcraft alternative to “Werewolf”. What you need: As many printed character cards as there are players (or assign roles to playing cards).Note: There should always be 1 “Burnout”, 1 “Volunteer Support”, 1 “Comms Lead” and 2 “Woodies”. […]