Conversation Starter Games | Buy Now at Trainers Warehouse

Q: Is it appropriate for corporate settings?

Yes. The prompts are professional, light, and suitable for workplace training.

Q: Can it be cleaned?

Yes. The durable surface can be wiped down for reuse.

UNZiP-it! Remote w/ Diversity Prompts

Chat online about diversity, acceptance, and personal differences

$9.95

UNZiP-it! Remote w/ Favorites Prompts

UNZIP-it!™ and start talking about all your Favorite Things.

$9.95

UNZiP-it! Remote w/ Get Happy at Work Prompts

UNZiP-it!™ and start talking online about What Makes you Happy!

$9.95

UNZiP-it! Remote w/ Meeting Zest Prompts

UNZiP-it!™ and start making your meetings amazing!

$9.95

UNZiP-it! Remote w/ Session Openers Prompts

Open any learning session with perfect conversation starter

$9.95

Toolbox Talks (Safety) Thumball

Discuss topics of Workplace Safety

$24.24

Look under your thumb and share your reaction to whatever prompt lies under your thumb. Thumball is a soft 6" diameter stuffed ball with loads of applications!

Toolbox Talks are informal safety meetings that address workplace hazards and safe work practices. They help promote an organizational culture that is healthy, safe, and supportive. Intended to supplement safety training, not replace it, Toolbox Talks can help kick off safety initiatives and identify areas to improve workplace safety.

The Toolbox Talks (Safety) Thumball looks like a cool soccer ball and has 32 panels pre-printed with cogent phrases suited for adults in the workplace. Use it to stimulate conversation, promote team spirit, and boost flagging energy.

TOOLBOX TALKS (SAFETY) THUMBALL PROMPTS

Prompts explore a variety of workplace safety topics:

Actions to take if/when things go bad
Dealing with bullying and harassment
Addressing substance abuse
Opportunities to improve employee wellness at work and home
Ways to make the workplace safer, including protocols, rules, support
Effect of personal decisions on others
Rules and hazards that could be revised
...and more!

[NOTE: Silver Series Conversation Prompts are available as Thumballs, UNZiP-IT! Pocket & Deck, and Virtual/Remote PPT.]

** TIPS **

FACILITATION SUGGESTIONS

Frame the discussion: Explain that the goal is to create a "safer" environment (physically and emotionally), to reduce the probability of injury, and to raise organizational awareness of safety issues. The point is to raise awareness and not to point fingers.

Options:

Intended to supplement safety training, not replace it, the Toolbox Talks Thumball can help kick off safety initiatives and identify areas to improve workplace safety.

* Discuss similarities or differences in replies.
* Have everyone respond to the same prompt.
* Toss the ba!! and pick a single topic on which to focus your weekly safety meeting.

Be prepared: Toolbox Talks are likely to raise questions about proper safety checklists or "correct" techniques for first aid, fire prevention, CPR, etc. Several websites provide such information sheets with ready answers pertaining to a variety of work situations:

Favorites include: * cpwr.com * safetytoolboxtopics.com * ehs.harvard.edu

Take notes for follow-up: While this is a discussion-starter tool, it may surface organizational issues or uncover gaps in knowledge about recommended safety protocols. Keep a list of follow-up actions that are identified during discussions.

©Trainers Warehouse – Trainers Warehouse holds the copyright for this set of questions. Reproductions cannot be made without express approval.

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Shaped by Our Past Thumball

Explore the past experiences that shape who you are today

$32.95

We are who we are today because of our history and our lifetime of experiences. Encourage your group to share details of their past -- school, friends, family, hobbies, challenges, and more!

Help your team get to know each other. The most compelling reason to break-the-ice is to create a stress-free environment, optimized for learning. These 6" soft and safe Thumballs are a great way to do it. Toss the ball to one player and ask them to share their reaction to whatever prompt lies under their thumb. Shaped by Our Past Thumball is ideal for work, school and home use. Older and "elder" players especially like sharing memories of their past that shaped who they are now.

SHAPED BY OUR PAST THUMBALL PROMPTS

The "Shaped by Our Past" collection of prompts draw out the experiences in our life that helped shape who we are today. Among them you'll find:

Childhood memories: birthdays, vacations, regrets
Past experiences: scary moments, hospital visits, turning points, accomplishments
Daily life when you were younger: extracurricular activities, friendships, summer traditions
People & personalities: impact of birth order, mentors, grandparents
Challenges & accomplishments: difficult choices, challenging times, goals

[NOTE: Silver Series Conversation Prompts are available as Thumballs, UNZiP-IT! Pocket & Deck, and Virtual/Remote PPT.]

** TIPS & Facilitation Suggestions **

Appreciate that this Thumball may remind participants of both happy and challenging moments in their past. If one question feels difficult, invite them to:

Take a pass
Trade questions with another player
Toss again

If you want to kick it up a notch, try these creative twists:

Discuss how the prompt or the player's story may affect current experiences
Have additional players respond to the same prompt before moving along

©Trainers Warehouse – Trainers Warehouse holds the copyright for this set of questions. Reproductions cannot be made without express approval.

This ball is part of Trainers Warehouse's exclusive Silver Series Thumballs.

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Stress Management Thumball

Chat about Stress Management causes and solutions

$32.95

Look under your thumb and share your reaction to whatever prompt lies beneath it. Thumball is a soft, 6" stuffed ball pre-printed with 32 prompts and LOADS of interesting applications for meetings, training, and employee relations.

With the Stress Management Thumball, explore the causes of stress and various ways to manage its impact. Teams can discuss what affects their stress level, how they can help each other out, how they can better manage their own approach to stress, and more.

STRESS MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION STARTER THUMBALL

The prompts on the Stress Management Thumball will help you explore and discuss the following:

Causes of stress: tasks, chores, times of year, and situation that bring angst
Controlling stress: ways to minimize stress and focus on priorities
Sources of calm: hobbies, activities, quiet places that bring relaxation
Wellness practices: Sleep, exercise and diet that nourish you
Dealing with stress: what do you do (can you do) when you get stressed
Electronics: impact of technology and email on stress levels

©Trainers Warehouse – Trainers Warehouse holds the copyright for this set of questions. Reproductions cannot be made without express approval.

** TIPS & Facilitation Suggestions **

This Thumball contains both prompts that address causes of stress and others that promote discussion and reflection on responses to stress. This is really meant to be a tool to build awareness and enable conversations about stress.

If you want to kick it up a notch, try these creative twists:

Ask first recipient to select an answer panel to which all players must respond or contribute.
Have players recall the responses of others.
Use each answer as a prompt to discuss broader aspects of stress-management including time management techniques, diet, exercise, sleep, ways to say "no", etc.

[NOTE: Silver Series Conversation Prompts are available as Thumballs, UNZiP-IT! Pocket & Deck, and Virtual/Remote PPT.]

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Team Dynamics Thumball

Discuss the dynamics that enable or hinder team success

$32.95

Look under your thumb and share your reaction to whatever prompt lies beneath it. Thumball™ is a soft 6" stuffed ball with loads of applications!

The Team Dynamics Thumball looks like a cool soccer ball and has 32 panels pre-printed with cogent phrases suited for adults and teens.

Teams are everywhere – at work, at home, at school, on and off playing fields. From board rooms to church basements, we're thrown together with people we may or may not know well, and are challenged to achieve great results. Is your team performing to the max? How do you support each other? How do you develop consensus and manage disagreements? Team Dynamics Thumball is a playful way to raise these critical questions so that your teams can reach their full potential.

Use Team Dynamics Thumball to stimulate conversation, promote team spirit, and boost flagging energy.

TEAM DYNAMICS THUMBALL PROMPTS

Through a series of conversation prompts, explore how your group is working as a team. For example, discuss...

Benefits and drawbacks of teaming
Ways to make others feel heard, show respect, and draw in multiple perspectives
Systems to improve productivity and minimize duplication of efforts
Approaches to identify goals, work to completion and celebrate success
Management of disagreements, problems, and mistakes
Methods to develop consensus, show support, and motivate each other.

©Trainers Warehouse – Trainers Warehouse holds the copyright for this set of questions. Reproductions cannot be made without express approval.

[NOTE: Silver Series Conversation Prompts are available as Thumballs, UNZiP-IT! Pocket & Deck, and Virtual/Remote PPT.]

** TIPS **

FACILITATION Suggestions

EXPLAIN HOW IT WORKS: Someone throws the ball, another catches it and responds to the prompt under their thumb.

FACILITATION TIP 1: SET EXPECTATIONS AND EXPLAIN CLEARLY

In order to achieve greatness, sometimes teams need to take a step back and reflect on their relationships, communication, and their process of working together.

Tailor your Thumball game to meet your needs:

- Option 1: Have each player respond only to the prompt under their thumb, then toss the ball to another.
- Option 2: After the first player has responded to their prompt, invite others to share their perspective or discuss ways they could work together more effectively.

FACILITATION TIP 2: SET GROUND RULES

Explain that conversations about team dynamics can become emotionally charged. The goal of the Team Dynamics Thumball activity is to raise important issues and have necessary conversations in a positive environment. So that everyone can feel safe, have the group set up their own Ground Rules.
Here are some that you might want on the list:

Only one person speaks at a time
Speak only for yourself; Use “I” statements
No personal attacks – critique ideas, not people
Agree to disagree; disagree without being disagreeable
Listen - make sure everyone feels heard and validated
Be positive and non-judgmental; open to new ideas

FACILITATION TIP 3: BE PREPARED IF CONVERSATIONS GET STICKY

Expert facilitators suggest these techniques to ease difficult or emotional situations:
Pause the conversation so you can review the ground rules with the group.
Redirect negative comments; ask “what can we do differently?”
Focus on changes that can positively affect the team.
If two parties disagree, suggest that they switch roles and make the counter argument.
Keep a flip chart of difficult topics that can be addressed later.
Be ready to share some of your own experiences.
Take a break. Stop for awhile and regroup.
Thank participants for sharing their personal stories.

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Session Openers Thumball

Break the ice and build teams!

$32.95

SESSION OPENERS THUMBALL – THE ULTIMATE ICEBREAKER BALL

Looking for a fun, low-stress way to kick off your training session, meeting, or classroom activity?
The Session Openers Thumball is a soft tossable ball covered with 32 engaging questions designed to spark introductions, build rapport, and energize your group. Unlike ordinary icebreaker games that participants dread, this interactive tool gets participants moving, laughing, and connecting right from the start.

WHY USE SESSION OPENERS?

Starting a session with an icebreaker helps participants relax, share, and feel included. It shouldn't be pointless or a waste of time. Rather, it should help participants make connections to one another and your content. Done well, opening activities make learning more effective and teamwork more natural. The Session Openers Thumball gives you a ready-made set of conversation prompts that:

Break down barriers and reduce anxiety
Encourage participants to share stories and experiences
Build community and trust among team members
Energize groups with a playful, kinesthetic twist

FEATURES

32 unique prompts designed for introductions and lighthearted sharing
Soft, safe, and durable design—perfect for classrooms, workshops, and corporate training
Versatile use cases: icebreakers, meeting warm-ups, team building, or quick energizers
Simple facilitation: no prep time required—just toss, catch, and share
Reusable: works with any group, again and again
Builds engagement: The mix of physical activity and conversation helps people stay engaged and attentive.

HOW IT WORKS

Toss the ball to a participant.
Wherever their right thumb lands, they answer the question on that panel.
Toss again to continue the activity until everyone has had a turn.

WHO USES SESSION OPENERS THUMBALL?

Corporate trainers looking for quick, effective meeting icebreakers
Teachers & educators who want to energize classrooms
Facilitators & coaches leading team-building sessions
Leaders & managers seeking new ways to build rapport with staff

FAQ

Q: How many people can play?
A: The Thumball works well for groups of 3–25. For larger groups, split into smaller circles.

Q: Is it appropriate for corporate settings?
A: Yes! Prompts are professional, light, and suitable for workplace training.

Q: Can it be cleaned?
A: Yes, the durable surface can be wiped down for reuse.

MAKE EVERY SESSION ENGAGING

The Session Openers Thumball is one of the easiest, most effective ways to start a session with energy and connection. It’s a conversation starter, team builder, and facilitation prop—all in one playful tool.

Get your Session Openers Thumball today and make every meeting or training session more engaging!

SESSION OPENER THUMBALL PROMPTS

The prompts on the Session Opener Thumball are intended to build relationships and tease out session goals, so that facilitators can get their learning sessions off to a good start. To this end, prompts primarily cover these three categories:

Getting to Know You - dreams, peeves, wishes, decisions, frustrations, talents
Learning Styles - best teachers, preferred learning methods, learning goals
Work Styles - proudest accomplishments, creative contributions, strengths

[NOTE: Silver Series Conversation Prompts are available as Thumballs, UNZiP-IT! Pocket & Deck, and Virtual/Remote PPT.]

** TIPS & Facilitation Suggestions **

Choose when to use it: Customers say, "This is one of the best session starters ever, because I can relate it to my content!" As an open-ended exercise, it's a perfect conversation starter for icebreakers, energizers, team building, lesson reinforcement and more.

Explain: Let your group know that you see the Session Openers Thumball as an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and each other. Help those who dislike icebreakers to understand that the Thumball will help them:

Understand who else is participating (if they don't already know each other)
Uncover goals and expectations for the day
Surface concerns about the material or other issues that may be distracting them

How to play:

Take turns circulating the Thumball by passing, rolling, tossing and catching. Ask recipients to respond to the prompt under their right thumb.

If you want to kick it up a notch, try these creative twists:

Specify that answers should relate specifically to personal and workplace experiences.
Ask players to anticipate what answer will be given by another player.
Have players recall answers given by previous responders, before adding their own answer.
Ask first recipient to select an answer panel to which all players must respond or contribute.
Survey players on several question panels, then create charts or graphs that
reflect the cumulative responses.

©Trainers Warehouse – Trainers Warehouse holds the copyright for this set of questions. Reproductions cannot be made without express approval.

This Thumball is part of Trainers Warehouse's exclusive Silver Series Thumballs.

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Favorites Thumball

What we like says a lot about us!

$32.95

Get Happy at Work Thumball

Focus on topics of happiness -- goals & accomplishments

$32.95

Look under your thumb, share, and get happy at work!

The Get Happy at Work Thumball discussion prompts help create a more positive workplace by allowing colleagues to share goals, discuss challenges, and build relationships. Focusing on Positive Emotion, Engagement, Meaning, Accomplishments, and Relationships, the prompts help surface sources of happiness as they draw out individuals' personal qualities, work challenges, professional goals, and organizational dynamics. By putting a positive spin on important discussion topics, the Get Happy at Work Thumball helps promote optimism, identify areas for organizational improvement and build a happier workplace.

Share your reaction to whatever prompt lies under your thumb. Thumball is a soft 6" stuffed ball with loads of applications!

You could also purchase our UNZIP-it! with Get Happy at Work Card Deck (Product Code #: BLZPAJ). These cards contain the same awesome prompts as our Thumball!

GET HAPPY AT WORK THUMBALL PROMPTS

The 32 prompts on this Thumball explore...

Workplace opportunities, challenges, and accomplishments
Upcoming priorities
Experiences and learning moments
Personal and professional goals
New risks, learning, or skills you hope to explore
Meaningful mentors, people, and relationships at work

[NOTE: Silver Series Conversation Prompts are available as Thumballs, UNZiP-IT! Pocket & Deck, and Virtual/Remote PPT.]

** TIPS & FACILITATION SUGGESTIONS **

Explain your goal.To maximize participation, explain that your goal is to promote shared understanding and build a happier, more supportive environment.
Don't rush it.Appreciate that some may not be able to give quick or pat answers to a prompt; others might want to take some time to discuss their thoughts. Don't feel rushed to get to the next question. Rather, give people the time needed to discuss what's on their mind.
Take notes.Thumballs have a great way of teasing out important information. Keep a notepad handy in case you hit an issue you'd like to revisit later.
Give each player a “pass.”If a player finds a prompt particularly difficult, invite them to take a PASS, ASK A FRIEND, or request a DISCUSSION.

NOTE: This ball is part of Trainers Warehouse's exclusive Silver Series Thumballs. (C) Trainers Warehouse.

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Getting to Know You Thumball

Get to Know colleagues and friends better with a fun game

$32.95

Getting to Know You Thumball® (6-inch) is one of Trainers Warehouse’s best-selling icebreaker tools—because it turns dreaded introductions into meaningful, comfortable conversations. Instead of going around the room with stiff intros, participants toss the soft, stuffed ball and answer the prompt under their thumb. With 32 creative questions built in, it is ideal for icebreakers, onboarding, corporate training, or any moment when team rapport matters..

WHY IT WORKS

Connections before content: Brain science shows learners retain more when they feel connected to other learners and to the content being covered. This Thumball sparks safe, real conversations that build trust and engagement, and prepares the mind to dive into the content.
Breaks the ice without the cringe: Even “icebreaker haters” enjoy the playful toss-and-catch format, which feels natural and low-pressure. BTW, we suggest you call them "openers."
Universally appealing: Works across cultures, age groups, and industries—perfect for classrooms, onboarding, and professional training.
Proven popularity: Among the most-purchased Thumballs worldwide, trusted by trainers for decades.
Emphasis on soft skills: Boosts interpersonal communication & active listening. Builds empathy and trust among participants.
Travels easily: Lightweight, portable and hassle-free—perfect for travel or virtual setups.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU THUMBALL PROMPTS

The prompts on the Getting to Know You Thumball are intended to be thoughtful, yet easy-to-answer. They'll help spark conversation and allow players to learn more about one another. It's a wonderful tool for team onboarding, new hire introductions, remote-team icebreakers, and more. Prompts focus on topics such as:

Experiences: memorable moments in your life
People: Family and friends who have impact your life
Most favorite and least favorite: Gifts, ages, sounds, chores
Activities: pastimes, hobbies, bucket list items, travel
Hopes, Fears and Wishes: the details that make you unique

Sample prompts include:

"The most difficult thing you’ve ever done?"
"The age you’d most want to relive"
"The age at which you became an adult"

HOW TO USE

Toss the Thumball to someone in the group.
They answer the question under their thumb.
Keep tossing until everyone has had a chance to connect.
Facilitator tip: Debrief by asking, “What surprised you?” or “What did you learn about your colleagues?”

DIFFERENCE FROM OTHER THUMBALLS

The Getting to Know You Thumball® zeroes in on simple, universally approachable prompts. It’s the best choice when you want to quickly break the ice with any group—even skeptics who normally dislike icebreakers.

SPECIFICATIONS

6-inch stuffed vinyl Thumball®
32 pre-printed prompts
Safe, soft, and durable for repeated use

FAQS

Q: How is this different from other Thumballs?
A: The Getting to Know You Thumball® is designed for quick, universally appealing introductions. Others (like Stress Management, Diversity, and Get Happy at Work) dive deeper into specific themes.

Q: What makes this better than a typical icebreaker?
A: People love playing with toys (which we call "tools"). Instead of putting people on the spot with scripted intros, the playful toss lowers defenses and makes conversation feel natural.

Q: How many people can play?
A: Great for groups of 6–25. For larger groups, use multiple Thumballs or break into several groups.

Q: Who uses this best?
A: Trainers, facilitators, teachers, HR professionals, and anyone who wants to build trust and rapport before diving into content-heavy sessions.

SEE IT IN ACTION

[NOTE: Silver Series Conversation Prompts are available as Thumballs, UNZiP-IT! Pocket & Deck, and Virtual/Remote PPT.]

** TIPS * Facilitation Suggestions **

Use the Getting to Know You Thumball to interact in a group setting and stimulate lively discussions among players. Take turns circulating the Thumball by passing, rolling, tossing and catching. Ask recipients to respond to the prompt under their right thumb.

If you want to kick it up a notch, try these creative twists:

Specify that answers should relate specifically to personal or workplace experiences.
Ask first recipient to select an answer panel to which all players must respond or contribute.
Survey players on several question panels, then create charts or graphs that reflect the cumulative responses.
After they hear the answer, have other players guess what the prompt was.

©Trainers Warehouse – Trainers Warehouse holds the copyright for this set of questions. Reproductions cannot be made without express approval.

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Emotional Intelligence Thumball

Great Conversations to Build Emotional Intelligence

$32.95

Emotional Intelligence is a skill that allows people to be more effective in their roles at work and at home. It’s not just touchy-feely stuff and being able to name your feelings. Rather, it enhances employee retention and engagement, customer service, collaboration, and crisis management.

5 SKILLS OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

Emotional Intelligence (a.k.a. EQ) is associated with five skills. Develop your teams’ EQ by facilitating conversations that help participants grow more aware of their motivations, measure their reactions to difficult situations, and hone techniques to manage those emotions in empathy and social acumen. The five skills are:

Self-Awareness [SA]
Motivation [MO]
Self-Regulation [SR]
Empathy [EM]
Social Skills [SS]

EQ THUMBALL PROMPTS

Each conversation prompt on the Emotional Intelligence Thumball indicates the skill with which it is associated. Use the two-letter EQ skill codes (MO, SA, SR, EM, and SS), to build awareness of the skills, while building the skills themselves!

For example:

"What contributes to distrust?" is followed by [EM] for Empathy
"How could someone regain composure after snapping?" lists [SR] for Self-Regulation
"What holds you back from being your best YOU?" has [SA] for Self-Awareness

30 prompts are listed on the Thumball, specifically:

Self-Awareness [SA] - 7 prompts
Motivation [MO] - 5 prompts
Self-Regulation [SR] - 5 prompts
Empathy [EM] - 6 prompts
Social Skills [SS] - 7 prompts

FROM A DELIGHTED TRAINER, WINSOME CULLEY

MULTIPLE WAYS TO FACILITATE THE GAME

Adjust your play to make more or less of those skill areas:

Have recipients of the ball read the question aloud before answering.
Ask other players to guess which skill is referenced by conversation prompt.
Discuss why that prompt is categorized that way and what other skills might be addressed
Answer the question for yourself
Have other players answer the same question
Discuss differences among the answers
If a player isn't sure how to answer, invite them "take a pass," consult a colleague, or choose another prompt
Don't rush! Remember that thoughtful answers sometimes take a moment to think about. Offer to come back to the person for their answer after they've had time to consider it.

©Trainers Warehouse – Trainers Warehouse holds the copyright for this set of questions. Reproductions cannot be made without express approval.

MORE CONVERSATION STARTERS BY TRAINERS WAREHOUSE

In addition to Silver Series Thumballs, Trainers Warehouse offers a range of other products to help build relationships, draw out learning, and inspire conversation about meaningful topics. Such products include Conversation Cards and UNZIP-IT Decks. Some facilitators prefer decks because they enable players to have small group conversation with 1 or 2 other participants before sharing with a larger group of players.

Diversity Thumball

A playful tool for a serious discussions about diversity & inclusion

$32.95

Look under your thumb and share! Diversity Thumball is a playful tool for serious discussions.

We live in a diverse world. Some differences are visible, like skin color, gender, height or weight, physical challenges, and age. Others may not be visually apparent, but still affect how individuals feel or are treated: ethnicity, socio-economic position, sexual orientation, virginity, use or non-use of alcohol, allergies, intellect, depression, and other emotional diseases.

The Diversity Thumball tackles a difficult topic with smarts and sensitivity. Thumball™ is a soft 6" stuffed vinyl ball that looks like a cool soccer ball and has 32 panels pre-printed with questions suited for adults and teens. Safely toss it around in a group and ask participants to share their reaction to whatever prompt lies under their thumb.

DIVERSITY THUMBALL PROMPTS

Explore the topic of diversity by chatting about these topics:

Sources of your attitudes towards people unlike yourself
Experiences in which you felt like an outsider or shared an unpopular idea
Important aspects of your identity that feel important
Origins and experiences with prejudice
Ways to combat discrimination and make others feel included
Bias based on gender, disabilities, age, race, sexual identity...

©Trainers Warehouse – Trainers Warehouse holds the copyright for this set of questions. Reproductions cannot be made without express approval.

[NOTE: Silver Series Conversation Prompts are available as Thumballs, UNZiP-IT! Pocket & Deck, and Virtual/Remote PPT.]

FACILITATION TIP 1: EXPLAIN & SET GOALS

Introduce the activity by explaining: "We live in a diverse world. Some differences are visible, like skin color, gender, height or weight, physical challenges, and age. Others may not be visually apparent, but still affect how individuals feel or are treated: ethnicity, socio-economic position, sexual orientation, addictions, abstinence, allergies, intellect, depression or other emotional disorders, etc. The goal is to understand each other better and start a dialogue."

FACILITATION TIP 2: SET GROUND RULES

Explain that conversations about diversity and bias can be emotionally charged. The goal is to share our experiences of feeling different or excluded and identify ways to create a more welcoming, diverse and compassionate community. So that everyone can feel safe, have the group set up their own Ground Rules. Here are some that you might want on the list:

Only one person speaks at a time
Speak only for yourself; use “I” statements
No personal attacks – critique ideas, not people
Agree to disagree; disagree without being disagreeable
Listen – make sure everyone feels heard and validated
Be positive and non-judgmental; open to new ideas

FACILITATION TIP 3: IF CONVERSATIONS GET STICKY

Expert diversity facilitators suggest these techniques to ease difficult or emotional situations:

Pause the conversation so you can review the ground rules with the group.
As the facilitator, share how an experience made you feel.
Ask others how an experience made them feel.
If two parties disagree, suggest that they switch roles and make the counter argument.
Keep a flip chart of difficult topics that can be addressed later.
Allow attendees to volunteer their participation as they feel comfortable.
Ask others for input on how they have handled similar situations.
Be ready to share some of your own personal stories.
Take a break. Stop for a while and regroup.
Thank participants for sharing their personal stories.

FACILITATION TIP 4: MAKE IT YOUR OWN!

Have a look at all the discussion prompts. If you're not perfectly comfortable with all of them, feel free to pick and choose your favorites and write them onto a Create-Your-Own-Thumball so they suit your needs 100%.

That's what Miguel did and then he wrote to tell us how it went:

“Our government client, who sat and watched our facilitation, was utterly impressed with the kinds of deep conversations the ball prompted. He admitted, ‘I wasn't really sure what you guys were going to do with that ball, and I must say it went pretty darn great'. It's a beautiful training tool. Thank you, again.”

NOTE: This ball is part of Trainers Warehouse's exclusive Silver Series Thumballs.

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DEI Thumball

Discuss Diversity Equity & Inclusion

$32.95

Dive into conversations about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with the DEI Thumball by Trainers Warehouse. The DEI Thumball, a favorite diversity and inclusion game, tackles a difficult topic with smarts and sensitivity.

After all, building community and culture by understanding our individual identities and differences isn’t just nice-to-do. It’s our shared responsibility. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are critical to creating high-performing, supportive, and engaging workplaces. Unfortunately, many leaders are unsure about how to have conversations about these sensitive topics and then how to transform the discussions and intent into action. Like other diversity training SMEs, make this diversity training game a core component of your next DEI training event!

The D-E-I Thumball helps team leaders, teachers, and managers have safe and constructive conversations about identity, experiences with racism, community challenges, privilege and power, as well as ways to promote tolerance and feelings of belonging.

In addition to the 31 conversation prompts contained on the Thumball, you’ll find FACILITATION TIPS and a GLOSSARY of common DEI terms in the packaging.

Many people worry about saying the wrong thing during DEI conversations. As a result, these important conversations often don’t happen. The DEI Thumball is loaded with poignant conversation prompts about identity, experiences, community, us-versus-them thinking, privilege and power, and DEI in today’s world. Each prompt, vetted by diversity experts, is phrased to promote positive conversation and shared understanding.

Thumball™ is a soft 6" stuffed vinyl ball that looks like a cool soccer ball. Its panels are pre-printed with questions suited for adults and teens. Safely toss it around in a group and ask participants to share their reaction to whatever prompt lies under their thumb. Looking for more DEI resources? Try the Diversity Thumball or the DEI Remote UNZIP-it that lets you have great conversations during online learning events as well!

FEATURES

31 prompts about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
6" ball is safe to toss indoors
Conversation prompts vetted by industry experts
Facilitation notes included in packaging
Glossary of common DEI terms in packaging

VERSATILE DIVERSITY-EQUITY & INCLUSION PROMPTS include...

Identity - share aspects of your identity that affect your life

Experiences - discuss times you felt belonging, targeted, micro-aggression, etc.

Our community - consider organizational initiatives to promote inclusion

Us vs Them thinking - identify allies who are alike or different from yourself

Privilege and Power - explore concepts of power dynamics, privilege, and oppression

DEI Today - discuss current dynamics that influence people's participation in DEI efforts

©Trainers Warehouse – Trainers Warehouse holds the copyright for this set of questions. Reproductions cannot be made without express approval.

FACILITATION TIPS

TIP 1: Create a safe environment – Beyond sharing your goals and wishes for open dialogue, discuss ways in which the group can create “psychological safety.”

Recognize that everyone joins the conversation with unique experiences and knowledge. Embrace players’ needs to pass on a question or ask for explanations.
Acknowledge the difficulty in sharing personal information and offer support. Use “OUCH” signs, to indicate personal hurt or express empathy.
Listen and ask questions to understand and empathize, not to defend, debate, or rationalize.

TIP 2: Set ground rules together – Players are more likely to abide by ground rules if they help define them. The group’s list will likely look something like this:

One person speaks at a time
Speak for yourself; Use “I” statements
Seek understanding by asking for clarification
Critique ideas, not people
Agree to disagree. Disagree without being disagreeable
Listen and validate other players
Be open to new ideas, not judgmental

TIP 3: Be prepared if conversations get sticky – Equip yourself with a few techniques to ease emotional situations

Revert to the ground rules, as needed
Express how situations make you feel
If parties disagree, suggest they switch roles and make the counter argument
Keep a “parking lot” of difficult topics to be addressed later
Share your own personal stories
Take a break and regroup later
Thank participants for sharing

TIP 4: Establish a shared vocabulary – Define common terms in the DEI world’s evolving lexicon.

Ally / Allyship: Someone who supports a group other than one’s own

Anti-Racist: a person who opposes racism and promotes racial equality.

BIPOC: An acronym used to refer to Black, Indigenous and People of Color.

Conversation across difference: open discussions about peoples’ different beliefs and backgrounds.

Micro-Aggression: Verbal or nonverbal slights which communicate derogatory or negative messages to target persons. i.e. “You are a credit to your race.” “I jewed him down.” “Why are you so loud/quiet?”

Psychological safety: refers to an environment in which team players can take risks without fear of retribution or negative consequences.

Unconscious Bias: stereotypes about certain groups of people that form outside individuals’ conscious awareness. Common biases are based on gender, race, weight, ageism, beauty, name, height, etc.; i.e. consider this riddle: a father and son are in a horrible car crash that kills the dad. The son is rushed to the hospital; just as he’s about to go under the knife, the surgeon says, “I can’t operate—that boy is my son!” How can this be? The surgeon is the boy’s mother

NOTE: This ball is part of Trainers Warehouse's exclusive Silver Series Thumballs.

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Common Ground Thumball

Toss, Catch, Look under your thumb! Great training tool and team builder!

$32.95

Change Management Thumball

Change management conversations made fun!

$24.24

Building Trust Thumball

Dive into the dynamics of building trust!

$32.95

Look under your thumb and share!

The Building Bridges Thumball™ focuses on issues of trust. Discuss factors that contribute to the development of trust, and building trusting relationships in the process. Simply toss the ball and ask the recipient to share a reaction to whatever prompt lies under their thumb. Thumballs are soft-sided 6" stuffed balls. They look like a soccer ball but are soft and safe for indoor use.

Trust allows us to take risks, open up, and look for mutually beneficial solutions when conflicts occur. Trust gives us peace of mind when we need to rely on one another, and comfort to share our vulnerabilities. Like a bridge, trust also brings people together and deepens relationships. Then, with strong relationship, we enjoy emotional support, confidence, reduced stress, good health, and happiness. Building trust starts with communication - asking the right questions and taking the time to listen.

BUILDING TRUST THUMBALL PROMPTS

The Building Bridges Thumball provides 32 discussion prompts, engineered to foster respect and develop shared understanding about our commonalities, values, and sensitivities. Trust allows us to take risks, open up, and look for mutually beneficial solutions when conflicts arise. Building trust starts with communication - asking the right questions and taking the time to listen.

Discuss...

Causes of trust and distrust
People you entrust with secrets
Impact of promises, apologies, and lies
Ways to make others feel safe
Dealing with mistakes and resistance
Being genuine
and more!

[NOTE: Silver Series Conversation Prompts are available as Thumballs, UNZiP-IT! Pocket & Deck, and Virtual/Remote PPT.]

** TIPS & Facilitation Suggestions **

Expect to adapt your use of this tool to the needs and experience of your group.

Some may be able to give quick or pat answers to a prompt; others might want to take some time to discuss or brainstorm best practices; still others might benefit from delving into a conversation about how trust impacts relationships in order to discuss why it's important.

If a player finds a prompt particularly difficult, invite them to take a PASS, ASK A FRIEND, or request a DISCUSSION about why it matters.

Options:

Discuss similarities or differences in replies.
Have everyone respond to the same prompt.
Discuss the long-term implications of various actions.

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Be A Leader Thumball

Discuss what it takes to be a leader!

$32.95

Look under your thumb and share!

The Be a Leader Thumball gets the conversation going about what skills great leaders possess, and guides players through a bit of introspection as they consider their own leadership strengths or opportunities for improvement.

This ball contains 32 panels including both reflective and forward-thinking prompts! Players share their reaction to whatever prompt lies beneath their thumb.

BE A LEADER THUMBALL PROMPTS

In this unique Leadership Thumball, find a full range of conversation starters, including:

Leadership traits that I have or aspire to have in myself and my team
Ways to motivate, inspire, and recognize employee contributions
Methods for dealing with disagreement, decision making, and mistakes
Reflections on challenges, frustrations, delegation, and impatience
Approaches to promote growth and learning
Techniques to get buy-in, promote diversity, and share feedback

[NOTE: Silver Series Conversation Prompts are available as Thumballs, UNZiP-IT! Pocket & Deck, and Virtual/Remote PPT.]

FACILITATION SUGGESTIONS

Some seem to be born leaders; others must work at it. No matter who you are, you'll be a better leader if you take time to reflect on past experiences, discuss future goals, and identify ways to engage your group. The Be a Leader Thumball is a discussion tool to help you develop key leadership qualities and identify specific ways to communicate your vision, spread enthusiasm, build your team's esteem, seek broad perspectives, and more.

Be flexible

Expect to adapt your use of this tool to the needs and experience of your group. Some may be able to give quick or pat answers to a prompt; others might want to take some time to discuss or brainstorm best practices; still others might benefit from delving into a conversation about the implied leadership quality in order to discuss why it's important. If a player finds a prompt particularly difficult, invite them to take a PASS, ASK A FRIEND, or request a DISCUSSION about why it matters.

Options

Discuss similarities or differences in replies.
Have everyone respond to the same prompt.
Discuss the long-term implications of various actions.

©Trainers Warehouse – Trainers Warehouse holds the copyright for this set of questions. Reproductions cannot be made without express approval.

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UNZiP-it! Remote w/ Shaped by our Past Prompts

UNZiP-it!™ and chat about the Past Experiences that shaped you

$9.95

UNZiP-it! Remote w/ Stress Management Prompts

UNZiP-it! Remote - Stress Management

Discuss Stress Triggers & Stress Management, online or in-person

$9.95

Energize a Webinar, Remote Learning Session, or Online Meeting with UNZiP-it! Remote. Even if you aren't face to face, make it fun to pick a question and get conversations rolling. Read the poem and pick a question:

Feeling shy about speaking out?
Or, not sure what to talk about?
It's easy now to start the flow,
And have discussions bloom and grow.

Click the button below to pick a topic,
Big and broad, or microscopic,
A prompt that doesn't dig too deep,
Or one that makes you take a leap.

Go ahead, just press to pick it,
Read the prompt and then UNZiP-it!

STRESS MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION STARTER

The prompts on Stress Management will help you explore and discuss the following:

Causes of stress: tasks, chores, times of year, and situation that bring angst
Controlling stress: ways to minimize stress and focus on priorities
Sources of calm: hobbies, activities, quiet places that bring relaxation
Wellness practices: Sleep, exercise and diet that nourish you
Dealing with stress: what do you do (can you do) when you get stressed
Electronics: impact of technology and email on stress levels

The Stress Management prompts allow you to explore the causes of stress and the various ways you might manage its impact with this one-of-a-kind Thumball. Teams can discuss what affects their stress level, how they can help each other out, how they can better manage their own approach to stress, and more.

POWERPOINT PRESENTATION FORMAT

The PowerPoint file is saved as a "pptm" file, containing a Macro. Once you enable the content, the UNZiP-it! Button will select a random discussion prompt.

[NOTE: Silver Series Conversation Prompts are available as Thumballs, UNZiP-IT! Pocket & Deck, and Virtual/Remote PPT.]

This is a downloadable product. After you've placed your order, you will be given a link where you can download the file or you can log into your account and download the file.

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