Authentic Connection: One-Word Opener Activity

Icebreakers can be an effective way to help teams get to know each other and feel more comfortable collaborating.

– Jonathan Thompson


OPENER ACTIVITY

  • Split participants into small teams of 3-4 people (using breakout rooms if you’re on Zoom) and ask them to come up with one word to describe your school culture or a project you’re working on or a new school initiative, etc.
  • Give them a few minutes to discuss amongst themselves, then let each team present their word, and the reasoning behind it

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Authentic Connection: True or False Opener Activity

While this activity functions as an icebreaker, it also serves the purpose of deeper team-building, even for more well-established teams. Not only does this help the group get to know each other better and swiftly reduce stress levels, but it also sparks immediate interaction – as the group comes together to root out the red herrings.

This activity is also known as two truths and a lie, and is one that students also enjoy (whether for getting to know each other or their teacher).

Authentic Connection: Team Timeline Opener Activity

While this activity functions as an icebreaker, it’s best for deeper team-building for established teams. This exercise helps show, in a visual way, the different experiences, priorities, and generations within your team. It leads well into talking about shared experiences, breaks down barriers and creates a mindset of authentic communication. 

Authentic Connection: Joy Toss Opener Activity

This versatile icebreaker/opener activity—from LMB Consulting—is fantastic for students, staff, leadership teams, peer groups, etc. It certainly functions as any “typical” icebreaker, but with the focus on joy and strengthening skills of listening and focus, the opportunity for more authentic positive connections is possible.

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