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Me First!® v.4 Wireless Game Buzzer System (8-user set) is a game show style training tool that energizes reviews, quizzes, and competitive learning. This wireless classroom buzzer system lights up on the player’s pad to show who buzzed in first—keeping games fair and fast-paced. Trainers and teachers love it for adding excitement to team building, test prep, and corporate workshops.

Each player uses a Personal Answer Dome (P.A.D.); when someone buzzes first, their P.A.D. lights GREEN and all others light RED so you instantly see who won the buzz-in. The facilitator can press CONTINUE to block previous winners from the next round or RESET to let everyone ring in again.

KEY FEATURES

• 8-player set: includes 8 player P.A.D.s + 1 facilitator control unit; batteries included
• 4-player set: includes 4 wireless P.A.D.s + 1 facilitator control unit (with USB port)
• Instant lockout: identifies the first buzz within .001 seconds; others lock out
• Player lights: first player’s P.A.D. turns GREEN; others RED
• Facilitator control: choose CONTINUE (block previous winners) or RESET (all can buzz again)
• RIGHT/WRONG feedback: facilitator unit plays sounds; player P.A.D.s flash for correct/incorrect
• Wireless & portable: 2.4 GHz; ~80 ft RF range; under 4 lbs; snap-in battery door
• USB integration: 1 USB port on the facilitator unit for use with game show software
• Concurrent play: pairing memory lets two games run at once (keep facilitators 10+ ft apart)

Need flexibility? Add extra player P.A.D.s (up to 36) or choose the smaller 4-player set.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• 8 player P.A.D.s (approx. 3" diameter)
• 1 facilitator control unit
• Batteries
• 1 USB port on the facilitator unit

Note: v.4 is not compatible with v2 and earlier versions

SPECIFICATIONS

• Lockout speed: identifies first buzz within .001 seconds
• Wireless: 2.4 GHz; RF range ~80 ft (line of sight)
• Weight: < 4 lbs; snap-in battery door
• USB: integrates with game show software

See quick-start and full instructions linked from the product page.

COMMON USES

• Corporate training games, icebreakers, and debriefs
• Classroom quiz reviews and formative assessment
• Team-building energizers and decision-making exercises
• Game-show style learning (e.g., Jeopardy-style formats)

FAQS

Q: Does this system have a light tower?
A: No. Me First! lights the player’s P.A.D. GREEN for the winner and RED for others—so you can see results without a tower.

Q: Can I exclude players who already answered?
A: Yes. Press CONTINUE to block previous winners from buzzing in again until others have had a turn, or RESET to reopen buzzing for everyone.

Q: What’s the range of this wireless classroom buzzer system?
A: About 80 feet in open space; reliable for most classrooms and training rooms. :

Q: How fast does it determine the first buzz?
A: The system identifies the first buzz within .001 seconds and locks out others.

Q: Can I expand or run two games at once?
A: Yes. Add extra P.A.D.s (up to 36). Pairing memory also allows two concurrent games if facilitator units are 10+ ft apart.

Me First game show lockout buzzers make teaching and learning fun for everyone involved! Your students or trainees will have a blast competing to earn points by answering questions, while you enjoy the thrill of hosting. These innovative Me First wireless buzzers turn everyday teaching sessions into unforgettable game shows. Use these dynamite audience participation buzzers to captivate your classroom and get everyone involved in the day’s lesson, all while teaching them more effectively.

With Me First!® Personal Answer Dome (P.A.D.) at every seat, participants can compete to answer your questions and win points. The facilitator remote lets you choose whether to block out players who have already buzzed in or reset the system so that everyone can answer.

Click here for the Me First wireless buzzers simple operating instructions.

HOW TO PLAY

Facilitating Me First! Games is easy and stress-free.

1. ASK the audience your question.
2. PARTICIPANTS BUZZ IN with their responses by pushing on the dome of their P.A.D.
3. QUICKLY SEE RESULTS: When someone buzzes in, the Facilitator Unit lights up GREEN. The student to buzz in first will see their P.A.D. turn GREEN, signaling that it's their turn to answer the question. All other participants’ P.A.D.s will light up RED until the facilitator presses the CONTINUE or RESET button.
4. INDICATE RIGHT OR WRONG ANSWER: If a player answers incorrectly, the facilitator can press the red “WRONG” button, to create a buzzing sound; If the Me First player provides a correct answer when playing, the facilitator can press the green “RIGHT” button to make a DING-DING sound. The correct player's P.A.D. will also flash to indicate that they answered correctly. The wireless game show lockout buzzers track this data for the entirety of the game.
5. CHOOSE CONTINUE OR RESET: By pressing CONTINUE, the facilitator will “lock out” the P.A.D.(s) that have already been green, and turn them RED. All other P.A.D.s will light up YELLOW, signifying that those remaining players may again attempt to buzz-in. Me First! hosts can keep pressing CONTINUE after subsequent questions until all players have had a chance to answer.

USE ME FIRST GAME BUZZERS FOR GROUPS OF ALL SIZES

• Add additional Player P.A.D.s (sold separately) to expand the game to as many as 36 participants.
• Add a second Facilitator Remote (sold separately) to run two games simultaneously, with each unit connected to multiple player P.A.D.s.
• Accommodate smaller groups with the Me First small 4-player Buzzer Set.

SEE HOW ME FIRST GAME BUZZERS WORK


See demo of RIGHT and WRONG buzzer feature on the facilitator remote!

TRAINERS TIP: "I USE THEM AS AN EXERCISE COMPLETION INDICATOR"

I love when our trainers share their tips and tricks. This one is from seasoned facilitator and trainer, Nora Gerber:

"I use the Me First Buzzers with my table teams so they can indicate when the table has completed an assigned task or conversation. Then the whole room knows when everyone is ready to move along." To do this, hit "CONTINUE" after each table rings in. When all the table buzzers show RED, hit "RESET" and move along.

BONUS RESOURCES

• Compare Who’s First & Me First Game Show Buzzers
• First-Hand Experience using Me First with Middle School Students
• Facilitating TV-Style Game Shows(like JEOPARDY!)

SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE

The Me First Game Show Lockout Buzzer System is a cutting-edge way to gamify learning. Like every product sold by Trainers Warehouse, the set is fully backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Besides providing a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved, this set is an extremely effective teaching aid that empowers participants to absorb information more effectively than traditional teaching methods allow.

Couple your classroom game buzzers with game show software, fidget toys, dry-erase answer boards, and tons of other tools to make training and learning more engaging, effective, and fun.

TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF WHO ANSWERED FIRST! Who's First?® Wireless Game Buzzer System is a stand-alone "buzz-in" game show buzzer system that will add excitement and real time technology to any fast-action Q&A game. The system identifies first and second place respondents with snazzy lights, audible buzzer sound (which can be turned off, if desired), and 6 color-coded touch pads that announce who came in first -- and second!

ENJOY COMPETITION WITHOUT DISPUTES!

Who's First? Wireless Game Buzzer System w/ Light Tower & USB port & Randomizer is a favorite of teachers and trainers worldwide! Add gameshow excitement to your classroom or meeting with this snazzy, updated model of our popular Who's First? 6-TEAM classroom gameshow light and buzzer system!

RELY ON WHO'S FIRST! FOR YOUR GAME ANSWER BUZZERS

• 6 Team Buttons are large enough to cater to team play and foster camaraderie.
• 1st responder flashes; 2nd responder show solid
• Light Tower measures 19" H (Base measures approximately 3" x 6" diameter) and weighs just 3 lbs.

The Random Team Selection function lets you randomly choose who gets to answer next, rather than asking for for participants to buzz in.

SEE IT IN ACTION

INCLUDES:

• 1 main tower with 6 colored lights
• 6 wireless colored touch pads (3.5" dia. x 1" h)(3AAA batteries included in each touch pad)
• 1 wireless reset touch pad
• Backpack Carry Case
• AC adapter to recharge internal battery - use 5-volt adapter
• USB cable

Click here for easy to use operating instructions...

International customers, please note: The system uses 5 volts DC. The adapter included in the package can be used worldwide, Input 100 - 240V.

Here's what people are saying about this "Trainers Exclusive":

"... I just wanted to write and tell you -- what an AWESOME, well made, easy to use product. I will use this with my students and during training sessions with the staff. I love the storage bag that came with it has a home for everything. This was a well thought out product and I can't wait to put it to use!" --Ryan from Hampstead Central School

"For 10 years we have been playing a Jeopardy-style game as a review for one of our classes, and it has always been a challenge (and sometimes source of great controversy) to figure out which team was first to answer the question. We've tried raising hands and other types of buzzers, but the teams that weren't chosen frequently argued that the judge just didn't see them, or that their buzzer sounded a split second before the other team's. It was stressful for the instructors who were leading the activity and distracted the students from the review as they got all wound up about whether the other team was unfairly getting more chances to answer questions. This takes all the subjectivity out of it. The flashing light is up there for everybody to see. It's just what we needed to get the focus off the process and onto the content. Makes the instructors happier too, since they don't have to make any more controversial judgment calls." --WV Catherder from Harpers Ferry

Explore more reviews of Trainers Warehouse Game Answer Buzzers

SHOW & SHARE: ZOOM DEMO, plus Q&A

** TIPS **

STAND-ALONE BUZZER: If you don't have time for a long Jeopardy-like game, you can also put together a quick 5-10 question quiz and keep score the old -fashioned way, on a chalk board or whiteboard.

SOFTWARE INTERFACE: If you want to check the software interface, plug in the USB cable from the light tower to your computer. Then open any sort of word document. When you tap one of the colored buttons, you should see it type a number 1-2-3-4-5-6. If no number appears, we might have a connectivity issue.

BATTERY CHECK: Be sure to test your buzzer before any event. If the unit is not working, it's always good to check the power and/or the batteries in the touch pads.

TeamWRITER® is a patented, collaborative team-building game that gets groups communicating, problem-solving, and laughing together. Teams assemble the device, attach strings to the TeamWRITER “gizmo,” then work together to guide a single pen and produce legible writing or simple drawings.

WHAT IT BUILDS

• Communication & listening: groups must coordinate hand tension and verbal cues
• Problem-solving: agree on what to write, then figure out how to do it together
• Role clarity & leadership: natural roles emerge (caller, steady hands, strategist)
• Psychological safety: low-risk, high-fun activity that levels the playing field

HOW IT WORKS

1. Assemble the TeamWRITER and connect the strings to the central holder.
2. Choose a word, phrase, picture, or logo to write.
3. Coordinate pulls and slack on the strings to steer the pen together.
4. Debrief: What helped or hindered clarity, trust, and execution?

Patented design: TeamWRITER is protected under US Patent D1,037,355 S. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

WHEN TO USE

• Kickoffs and icebreakers for new or cross-functional teams
• Workshops on collaboration, communication, or Agile teamwork
• Leadership retreats and off-sites as a fast, hands-on challenge

AUDIENCE

TeamWriter is best played with 4 to 10 participants

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• TeamWRITER device (string-guided writing “gizmo”)
  • 2 guide plates to hold the player ropes
  • 1 stem that holds the guide plates and marker in place
  • 10 light-weight ropes
  • 1 Sharpie brand marker. NOTE: the marker holder is sized to hold a Sharpie(TM) brand marker. If using a different marker, you may need to wrap some duct tape around the barrel of the marker for a snug fit. You will also need to secure a large sheet of paper (flip chart paper works great) or cardboard to the ground.
• Bag to hold the game parts
• Setup and usage instructions
• Facitlitation notes containing game ideas and tips

FACILITATION TIPS

• Encourage groups to "start small" (initials, simple shapes) before attempting words or logos
• Assign roles: navigator (caller), timekeeper, and quality checker
• Run two rounds: first without strategy, second with agreed signals—then compare outcomes

FAQS

Q: What exactly do participants do?
A: Teams connect strings to the central holder and collectively steer a pen to write or draw, using coordinated pulls and clear communication.

Q: How long does the exercise take?
A: Many facilitators play the whole game in about 20-30 minutes. Depending on the complexity of the challenge, expect 5-10 minutes to ASSEMBLE the device and DRAW, and 10-25 minutes to DEBREIEF.

Q: What makes TeamWRITER different?
A: This activity requires genuine interdependence and collaboration—no one person can “win” alone—so listening becomes the only path to success.

TeamWriter® is a patented, easy-to-use, collaborative team-building game. Fit the pieces together, connect a set of strings to the TeamWriter gismo, and work as a team to write something that's actually legible. (PAT. US D1,037,355 S )

SUPER FUN CHALLENGES

Facilitators can easily adapt this game to a myriad of applications. For instance, you could have groups:

• Write the answer to topical question
• Draw an icon that represents a key learning point
• Write out a meaningful question or phrase

Once the group figures out WHAT they will write, the next challenge is HOW they will do it. Together they'll have to coordinate:

• Where is the top of the page?
• Into which holes should they connect the strings for maximum control?
• Who will be the group leader?
• How will you communicate effectively and listen to each other respectfully?

To add difficulty, facilitators can limit the time available to complete the task, limit communication to non-verbal cues only, or blindfold one more players.

SEE IT IN ACTION!

DEVELOP A BROAD RANGE OF TEAM BUILDING SKILLS

The TeamWriter exercise is excellent whether your team is forming, storming, norming or performing! Adapt the dynamic team building activity to any of these important team development goals:

• Improve team dynamics
• Solve challenging problems together
• Break the Ice
• Improve Communication
• Build Trust
• Develop strong leadership

Patent No.: US D1,037,355 S

COMPARISON CHART

Not sure which team-building activity is right for your group? Trainers Warehouse offers a variety of experiential learning games that build skills in communication, collaboration, adaptability, leadership, and conflict resolution. Use the chart below to compare five of our most popular activities—PuzzleBlind®, Helium Stick®, TeamWRITER®, Shape Up!®, and Team 10®—and choose the one that best fits your training goals, group size, and workshop format.

PROFESSIONAL & STURDY TOP LOADERS!

DocU-Sleeves (8.5″ × 11″ Clear Plastic Document Protectors) keep your documents, signs, and certificates looking crisp, professional, and protected—without the hassle or expense of lamination. These reusable, top-loading plastic sleeves are perfect for corporate signage, training room displays, safety posters, event schedules, and job aids. Just slide in your sheet and post it with your choice of plain, magnetic, or VELCRO®/OMNI backings.

WHY TRAINERS & MANAGERS LOVE THEM

• Reusable sign sleeves: Swap out content anytime—ideal for agendas, SOPs, or compliance signage.
• Professional presentation: Protects against fingerprints, smudges, and humidity while keeping content visible.
• Versatile display: Available with plain backs, magnets for metal surfaces, or VELCRO®/OMNI for walls, doors, and cubicles.
• Save money & time: No need to laminate or reprint every time content changes.

KEY FEATURES

• Letter size (8.5" x 11") with opening on the short side (top-loading)
• Portrait or landscape: hang vertically or horizontally
• Choose your backing: Plain (no backing), Magnet, or VELCRO/OMNI tabs — shipped pre-attached for convenience
• Dry-erase friendly: slide in a blank sheet or form and write; wipes clean
• Reusable & cleanable: spray and wipe to maintain clarity
• Professional look: slim ~1/4" border on three sides
• Lamination alternative: protect and update content without permanent sealing

COMMON USES

• Corporate training rooms: Training room signage and onboarding displays
• Recognition: Certificates, diplomas, and awards
• Workplaces: Safety and compliance posters;
• Job aids, SOPs, and quick reference guides
• Events & conferences: Meeting agendas and corporate communications; Event signage, conference schedules, and wayfinding

CHOICE OF BACKINGS

• Plain (No Backing): use with your own stands or hardware
• Magnet Backing: ideal for metal surfaces (file cabinets, machinery)
• VELCRO/OMNI Tabs: adhere to fabric or painted walls; gentle on surfaces

Backings are applied before shipment for quick installation.

FAQS

Q: How are DocU-Sleeves different from laminating?
A: Unlike lamination, DocU-Sleeves are reusable. Simply slide in new content anytime—perfect for changing signage, agendas, or rotating job aids.

Q: How is this different from a page protector?

A: DocU-Sleeves are sturdier and present documents more professionally than thin binder sleeves, yet are easier to update than rigid acrylic frames.

Q: What surfaces can I mount them on and what backing should I choose?
A: Choose from plain back (for bulletin boards), magnetic back (for metal surfaces), or VELCRO®/OMNI back (for walls, doors, cubicles, and other non-metal surfaces).

Q: Can I write on the surface?

A: Yes. Insert a blank sheet or form and use dry-erase markers. Wipe clean to reuse. Many facilitators use them with checklists or reusable forms—just wipe clean after use.

Q: What size paper fits?
A: Standard 8.5″ × 11″ sheets fit perfectly—whether it’s a certificate, safety poster, or meeting agenda. It can also be hung vertically (portrait orientation) or horizontally (landscape orientation).

Q: Are other sizes available?
A: Yes—additional sizes are available across the DocU-Sleeves line.

CARE & LONGEVITY

• Clean with a light spray and soft cloth; avoid abrasives
• For longest clarity, avoid extended direct sunlight

FREE SAMPLE

Curious how it looks in your space? Use the form below to request a complimentary sample of the 8.5" x 11" DocU-Sleeve to test fit and finish.

KEEP OFFICE SIGNS & EMPLOYEE CERTIFICATIONS PROTECTED WITH PLASTIC SLEEVES

Once you start using these clear pocket sleeves (a.k.a. top loaders), you’ll wonder how you ever got by without them! If the information needs to be visible, put it in a DocU-Sleeve! Our DocU-Sleeves are helpful multi-purpose document protectors to keep all your essential paperwork safe. Add a professional touch to any document by simply placing it in a clear plastic paper holder. They’re lightweight and flexible, yet sturdy enough to offer outstanding protection you can depend on--not quite as rigid as an acrylic frame but not as flimsy as modern page protectors

Keep any important document in pristine condition. Safeguard checklists, evacuation signs, real estate listings, proposals, and other important papers. Honor participants at training events with attractive certificates, or hang your signage on the wall with your preferred pre-attached backings. Use clear pocket sleeves as an easier, non-permanent alternative to lamination.

100s OF USES!

Customers have told us about all the ways they use DocU-Sleeves Sheet Protectors (a.k.a. Clear Pocket Sleeves, or "those clear plastic things"). How will you use them?

VIEW VIDEO DEMO BELOW

BACKING INFORMATION

DocU-Sleeves can be ordered with NO BACKING or with your CHOICE OF BACKING, WHICH TRAINERS WAREHOUSE APPLIES FREE OF CHARGE SAVING YOU TIME.

Each DocuSleeve is inspected and placed into it's own poly bag to ensure its quality

** TIPS **

There are literally hundreds of uses for our plastic sleeves. We see them in use for certificates, job aids, real estate listings, checklists, and evacuation signs, to name just a few.

No matter how you use DocU-Sleeves, here are just a few tips:

• ORIENTATION
  • You can put sheets in vertically or horizontally (portrait or landscape).
  • For vertical use, we recommend leaving the opening at the top, unless it's posted outside and you want to protect your document from water. Even if the opening is at the bottom, your document is unlikely to slide out.
• BACKINGS
  • VELCRO/OMNI - If you're not sure whether a recipient will use the document protectors on a plaster or fabric wall, choose the VELCRO/OMNI backing, so that they can use it on either surface.
  • OMNI - the gentle adhesive will not harm painted walls.
  • MAGNETS - these are best used for metal surfaces like file cabinets. They are light-weight magnets so if you stuff too many sheets in the plastic sleeves, it might be too heavy and slide down.
  • CONVENIENCE: We send the DocU-Sleeves with backings already attached.
• DRY-ERASE APPLICATIONS
  • LAMINATION: Use these plastic sleeves for paper in lieu of lamination.
  • DRY-ERASE: Put a blank sheet of paper inside (or some sort of worksheet, chart or form), then use dry-erase markers on the document protectors. You'll see they wipe clean nicely. Plus, you can slide in colored paper, worksheets, and forms.
• LONG LIFE
  • Slide sheets in and out as often as you need. They're not flimsy and so they'll stand up well to lots of transitions.
  • If using OMNI tabs, the adhesive may lessen if you take them up and down frequently, but feel free to get a bigger backup supply of OMNI TABS!
  • DocU-Sleeves placed in direct sunlight or in very bright areas may yellow over time.

REQUEST A FREE SAMPLE of an 8.5"x11" Docu-Sleeve

DocU-Sleeves are the perfect complement to our other Awards & Recognition products, such as Certificate Plaques and Padded Certificate Holders, as well as our convenient signage stands for display. Buy clear pocket sleeves in bulk to enjoy a generous discount — the more you buy, the more you save!Once you have DocU-Sleeves on hand, you’ll be surprised by how often you reach for small plastic sleeve protectors. After all, they provide a simple yet highly effective solution when you need protection with a professional look. All Trainers Warehouse products are backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee, so place your order with full confidence. Order quality top-loader sleeves now!

FIND DOCU-SLEEVES, SIGNAGE, & MORE

Trainers Warehouse is your go-to resource for all the fun, innovative, and effective tools you need to become a better trainer. From DocU-Sleeves and other plastic sleeves to reward your employees, to our expansive trainer library, you’ll find everything you need to keep employees energized, engaged, and excited about your workplace. Shop with Trainers Warehouse and tap into our huge inventory of products designed exclusively by and for trainers. Purchase in bulk and $ave! Feel confident about any purchase! We guarantee satisfaction 100%. Period!

Still not sure? Click here to read customer reviews and learn more about DocU-Sleeves.

Team Development Thumball® Set (with Free Mesh Bag) is a ready-to-run bundle of soft, tossable conversation balls loaded with prompts that build trust, communication, and collaboration in corporate retreats, business workshops, or workplace training. Facilitate icebreakers, coaching conversations, and debriefs by simply tossing, catching, and answering the prompt under your thumb—no prep, no slides, just real dialogue that strengthens teams. The stitched panels and durable stuffed vinyl are designed for heavy use.

HOW IT HELPS TEAMS

• Fast engagement: the toss-catch mechanic reduces anxiety and gets everyone talking
• Better communication: printed prompts spark stories, perspectives, and active listening
• Psychological safety: low-risk questions build comfort before tackling tougher topics
• Scalable & flexible: works for stand-ups, workshops, off-sites, classrooms, and retreats
• Zero tech, high impact: portable tools that facilitate face-to-face conversation
• Enhances emotional intelligence, listening, and conflict resolution.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Curated Team Development Thumball® set (multiple conversation balls with printed prompts)
• Free mesh carry bag for storage and quick transport
• Quick-start facilitation tips (toss–catch–answer, pass option, timeboxing, debrief ideas)

The Team Development Thumball Set puts almost 200 content-rich discussion prompts at your fingertips. Whether your team knows each other well, or are just forming new bonds, you're sure to find topics that will build appreciation and understanding. Each ball is easy to use! Just toss one of the 6 balls, then ask the recipient to look under their thumb and respond to the prompt. With this playful tool, your group will be able to explore:

• What makes your colleagues feel HAPPY?
• How do your TEAM DYNAMICS enable or inhibit success?
• Are you sensitive to Issues of DIVERSITY and INCLUSION?
• Is your team in sync when it comes to values and ETHICS?
• What's causing STRESS and how can it be managed?
• How you can promote positive LEADERSHIP?

The Team Development Thumball Set is conveniently packaged in a large mesh bag, which allows you to carry them around comfortably and stay organized.

Each Silver Series Thumball™ (6" stuffed vinyl ball) looks like a cool soccer ball but is pre-printed with 32 questions/discussion prompts that have been vetted by subject matter experts. They are suited for adults and teens alike! Following are more details about each of the popular Silver Series Thumballs in the Team Development set:

• The Get Happy at Work Thumball 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.
• The Team Dynamics Thumball enables conversations that promote team spirit and boost flagging energy. 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.
• 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.
• The Diversity Thumball is a fun training tool that tackles a difficult topic with smarts and sensitivity. 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, use or non-use of alcohol, allergies, intellect, depression and other emotional diseases.
• The Workplace Ethics Thumball raises questions and fosters discussion about individual and organizational norms and ideals, regarding making and breaking rules, fostering ethical leadership, whistle blowing, bending the truth, and more. It helps in having rich conversations about the types of people you look to as a moral compass; how you'd handle different situations; what integrity, rules, ethics, and fairness mean to you; and how your organization or team handles ethical issues. How do you distinguish right from wrong? Is your idea of ethical obligations and responsibilities the same as your colleagues, friends and family?
• The Stress Management Thumball helps you explore the causes of stress and the various ways you might 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.

Note: Specific Thumball® titles in the set may vary; each ball is focused on teamwork, leadership, and communication themes.

WHEN TO USE

• Kickoffs & new team formation
• Manager training & leadership development
• Retrospectives & after-action reviews
• Onboarding, cross-functional meetups, and offsites
• Icebreakers, energizers, and closing reflections

HOW TO FACILITATE

1. Invite a volunteer to start; toss the Thumball® across the room.
2. When caught, the player reads the panel under their thumb and shares a brief response.
3. Toss to another person and repeat. Offer a “pass” option to keep psychological safety high.
4. Debrief: capture patterns, insights, and next steps for the team.

FAQS

Q: What makes Thumball® different from typical icebreakers?
A: Prompts are printed on the ball, so no prep is needed. The playful toss reduces pressure, encourages participation, and keeps energy high.

Q: How many people can play?
A: Ideal for groups of 6–25. For larger groups, use multiple balls or run parallel circles.

Q: How long does a round take?
A: 5–15 minutes for a quick opener; 20–40 minutes for deeper discussion and debrief. It's good to model what sort of answers you're looking for. If an answer isn't thorough, feel free to say, "tell me more..."

Q: Who is this for?
A: Team leaders, facilitators, trainers, educators, and coaches who want a quick, effective way to strengthen team dynamics.

Q: How do I care for the balls and bag?
A: Wipe clean with a soft cloth. Store dry in the mesh bag to keep everything together between sessions.

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

MORE RESOURCES

• All about Silver Series Thumballs
• Tips & Suggestion on Facilitating Thumball Experiences
• How Deep to Discuss
• 7 Tips to formulate great questions
• More tools for great conversations
• Discover Your Thumball Style
• How Deep to Discuss Infographic

One-of-a-Kind Fiddle Set offers a curated mix of 20 unique, hard-to-find fidget tools designed to boost focus, engagement, and stress relief. Unlike standard fidget packs, these are carefully selected quiet, non-distracting tools—perfect for trainers, teachers, HR teams, and facilitators who want to surprise participants and support kinesthetic learners in classrooms, workshops, or corporate training sessions.

WHY FACILITATORS LOVE IT

• Truly unique: Each set contains unusual, hard-to-find fidgets that participants have likely never seen before.
• Boosts focus & engagement: Helps reduce anxiety, channel nervous energy, and keep learners present.
• Quiet & non-distracting: All tools are hand-picked to ensure they’re appropriate for professional learning environments.
• Supports kinesthetic learners: Transforms learning into a physical as well as mental experience, improving retention.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• A curated collection of unique, assorted fidget tools
• Reusable mesh storage bag for easy transport
• Each set varies slightly—ensuring a surprise mix every time

BEST USES

• Corporate training and team-building workshops
• Classroom activities and student engagement
• Office desks and remote work setups to reduce stress
• Icebreakers, energizers, or recognition gifts
• Participant giveaways and take-home reminders of training

PRODUCT QUALITY

• Durable, long-lasting construction for repeated use
• Quiet, non-distracting designs suitable for groups
• Safe materials and trainer-tested selection

WHAT’S INCLUDED? -TWO EACH OF EVERY FIDGET TOOL!

We've bundled ten of our favorite Trainers Exclusive fiddles to save you over 40% than if they were purchased separately! You'll get 20 fiddles at a great price and will get 2 each of the following fiddles:

• Gyrobi - The spinning fidget toy that twists, spins and rotates! Each Gyrobi is 3-3/4" diameter
• Gyrobi Squared - Gyrobi's square cousin. Each Gyrobi is 3.5" square
• Helix - Bright marbled colors, quiet action and mindless "fiddle-ability" make this the perfect fidget toy. The nine smooth beads circle the central axis of the Helix with ease!
• Swingos - The 3 rings are seamlessly attached to each other, and rotate around each other in surprising and various ways. Grip the rings, or slip a finger in any of them, and swing away with abandon. Each ring is approximately 2" diameter and when fully stretched, the Swingo is about 5".
• Loopeez - Endlessly flip the colored plastic pieces around and around the dual axes of the rings. The colored curved pieces are molded to fit perfectly in one hand or two. You won't believe how satisfying this feels in your hand! 3.5" long x 2" wide, when lying flat.
• Loopeez Jr. - Loopeez little sibling comes in a compact smaller size for smaller hands. 2.5" long x 1" wide, when lying flat.
• Clusterz - Designed to look like the nucleus of an atom, Clusterz hard plastic "proton" and "neutron" beads move around a center axis.
• Flexygon - A colorful endlessly flexible hexaflexagon-shaped fidget toy - is Trainers Warehouse latest patented finger fidget toy.
• Traxx - With four “tracks” linked end-to-end, Traxx twists, turns, and bends effortlessly, offering endless ways to fidget, spin, and pivot through your fingertips.
• Tridget - A colorful, palm-sized fidget toy that's designed to keep your hands busy and your mind sharp! With three peanut-shaped pieces that pivot smoothly around a central pin.

• PLUS+++ The One of a Kind Fiddle set is packed in a clear plastic bag for easy transport

FAQS

Q: How is this different from other fidget sets?
A: This set is curated with unusual tools that aren’t found in standard assortments, making it more memorable for participants.

Q: Are the tools quiet enough for training or classrooms?
A: Yes. Trainers Warehouse carefully selects fidgets that are quiet, non-distracting, and appropriate for professional environments.

Q: Can participants take them home?
A: Absolutely. Many facilitators give them as keepsakes to reinforce learning long after the session ends.

Q: Who benefits most from these?
A: Trainers, facilitators, teachers, HR teams, and anyone who wants to improve focus, relieve stress, or support kinesthetic learners.

Q: Does each set contain the same tools?
A: For the most part, yes. However, occasionally substitutions may occur.

Our "fiddles" may look like toys to the untrained eye, but they are truly serious learning tools. Kinesthetic learners will focus better and absorb your material more quickly if they have something to do with their hands.

Click here to view FREE Facilitation Notes for using Fiddles in the Classroom or the Boardroom!

Use our Quick Response Student Whiteboards to see who's learning what… and who's not getting it! Encourage participation with this fun and effective individual dry-erase boards class set. They’re a huge hit with students and educators, as every individual gets to contribute to the conversation. These super-sturdy, dry-erase, TWO-sided whiteboards are great for conducting icebreaker activities, casting votes, answering questions, rating or ranking items, sharing game answers, and more. You’ll be surprised by how often you pull out your answer boards!

FEATURES

• Set includes 12 Quick Response Whiteboards (a.k.a. Answer Boards) with blue handles and 12 mini-erasers
• Ultra durable and sturdy construction.
• Two-sided student whiteboards with dry-erase surfaces.
• Handles have holes for simple and convenient storage.
• Whiteboard Writing Surface Dimensions: 6" x 7.75".

TIPS

By calling on the first person to answer, everyone else in the room stops thinking on their own. The beauty of answer boards is that they allow every person to think and write an answer. Consider these tips to maximize use of your individual dry erase boards class set:

• Give people ample time to think of answers, and write them down.
• Consider “stand-pair-share” to get people moving and engaged in a meeting or learning event.
• Use student whiteboards for ice-breakers and energizers. Ask each person to jot down a goal, concern, or favorite quote. Or, for instance, ask people to write where they're from, then find the person who lives closest/farthest from them.
• Involve in-person and remote learners with student answer boards
• Entertain kids on long car rides with the travel-friendly individual dry-erase white boards

View Video Demo!

TRAINERS WAREHOUSE FOR ALL YOUR TRAINING NEEDS

We’re thrilled to offer a wide range of innovative products for trainers, teachers, and managers. Browse all of our games for learners to discover new, fun ways to keep your students or team engaged. In addition to these student whiteboards, we have plenty of accessories for response boards, including markers, erasers, extra boards, and more. Give everyone a voice, and improve communication with this individual dry erase boards class set!

Classic Smile Mirrors – 10-Pack are a powerful tool for building positive workplace culture. Whether used with call centers, customer service reps supporting external clients, or employees serving colleagues within the organization, these mirrors reinforce the importance of showing up with a positive attitude. A smile doesn’t just change how you feel—it changes how others perceive you, creating engagement, loyalty, and organizational success. It's great as a non-verbal communication tool for customer service, call center, or office settings—helping staff maintain tone, warmth, and professionalism.

WHY THEY WORK

• Customer service booster: Reminds reps that their attitude is reflected in every interaction, whether on the phone, in person, or over video.
• Internal collaboration: Encourages employees to bring positivity to colleague-to-colleague service, strengthening teamwork and culture.
• Engagement + morale: A smile increases approachability, reduces tension, and builds stronger connections.
• Organizational impact: Small changes in attitude ripple outward, improving employee satisfaction and customer experience.
• Helps with telephone etiquette and vocal warmth—smiling changes your tone.
• Subtle behavior change reminder: monitor mirrors promote consistent positive interaction.
• Boosts employee engagement and morale with visible reminders.

HOW TO USE

1. Provide mirrors to your team and encourage them to check their expression before calls, meetings, or customer interactions.
2. Use them in workshops to spark conversation about emotional intelligence, attitude, and the impact of nonverbal communication.
3. Reinforce the motto: “Your smile is part of your service,” and "Smile, they can hear it in your voice.
4. Place at phone stations or desks to remind staff to smile when answering calls.
5. Use during customer service training, onboarding, or call center etiquette workshops.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• 10 compact, single-sided rectangular mirrors (Each measures 6" W x 2.5 " H).
  • Each mirror is imprinted with the saying, "SMILE! They can hear it in your voice!"
  • Mirrors are backed with a gentle adhesive so they can be mounted and removed from a computer or wall.

FAQS

Q: Why use smile mirrors in corporate settings?
A: They serve as a tangible reminder that a positive attitude improves both customer and colleague interactions, strengthening engagement and service quality. The reason is not psychological but rather physiological. When you smile, the soft palate at the back of your mouth rises and makes the sound waves more fluid. ...Smiling helps your voice to sound friendly, warm, and receptive.

Q: Who benefits most from these?
A: Customer service representatives, sales teams, HR departments, and internal support staff—any role where attitude and presence directly affect outcomes.

Q: How do they impact organizational success?
A: Smiles foster trust, approachability, and connection, which lead to improved morale, stronger teams, happier customers, and better business results.

Q: How many people does this set serve?
A: Each set includes 10 mirrors, ideal for team-based workshops or departmental rollouts. Larger organizations may purchase multiple sets.

NOTE: Discounts available if you purchase 10 or more SETS. Quantity discounts shown above refer to a unit (set of 10 mirrors).

"Some telemarketing companies are so convinced of the value of smiling when talking on the phone that they install mirrors above telemarketers' desks to remind them to smile..."
--reprinted by permission from Customer Service for Dummies 3rd edition by Karen Leland and Keith Bailey. Copyright (c) 2006 by Wiley Publishing

See who's learning what and who's not getting it!

Encourage participation with Quick Response Briteboards. Briteboards Dry-erase Fluorescent Response Boards are a huge hit with students and educators, as every individual gets to write an answer, cast a vote, ask questions, and offer opinions.

Set includes 2 each of 5 different hot fluorescent boards... PLUS 10 fun mini-erasers that work GREAT on these boards. Erasers measure 2.5" x 1.25".

These super-sturdy dry-erase, TWO-sided Briteboards are great for:

• Casting votes
• Conducting icebreaker activities
• Answering questions
• Rating or ranking items
• Sharing game answers

View Video demos!

FEATURES:

• Easy to hold
• Large writing area: 6" x 7.75"
• 2-sided dry-erase surface
• Hole in handle for convenient storage
• Super sturdy and durable
• Cleans up easily

** TIPS **

Getting Acquainted Thumball® Set (with free mesh bag) is perfect for icebreakers, new employee introductions, team onboarding, or building company culture. For many trainers, it's their go-to icebreaker for building relationships and sparking authentic conversation. Each set includes 6 Silver Series Thumballs (6″ stuffed vinyl balls), each pre-printed with 32 unique prompts—for a grand total of nearly 200 engaging questions. Whether your group is meeting for the first time or already knows each other, these soft, tossable conversation balls with prompts to share identity, values, and first connections.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• 6 Thumballs: What Makes You YOU, Common Ground, Session Openers, Which Are You & Why?, Shaped by Our Past, Getting to Know You - see below for more information about each of the balls included in the set.
• 32 prompts each = almost 200 conversation starters
• Free large mesh bag for easy transport and visibility

KEY BENEFITS

• Fast connections: Toss it around and watch dialogue unfold—no prep needed. Strengthens trust and common ground in new or cross-department teams.
• Built for meaningful sharing: Suitable for both light-hearted and deeper conversations.
• Portable & organized: Mesh bag keeps everything together and ready for action.
• Trainer-endorsed: All prompts crafted by Trainers Warehouse experts for engaging conversations.

HOW TO FACILITATE

1. Start with one Thumball—toss it to a participant.
2. They read the prompt under their thumb and share their response.
3. Pass or toss to someone else.
4. Option to debrief by asking “What surprised you?” or “What resonated most?”

FAQS

Q: Is this set good for me if my group wants to have deeper conversations?
A: If you want to go deeper into different topics, we might suggest the Team Dynamics Thumball Set or the Emotional Intelligence Thumball Set.

Q: Who benefits most from this set?
A: While the set is ideal for facilitators, trainers, instructors, or event hosts who want to deepen connections between participants and make conversation easier, the real beneficiaries are the participants who are able to learn more about each other (and maybe even themselves).

Q: When would I use these?
A: They're perfect for employee orientation programs, team lunches, first week introductions, and more!

Q: How do I care for the Thumballs and bag?
A: Wipe the Thumballs clean with a damp cloth. Let them dry before storing. The mesh bag is lightweight and washable if needed.

180 CONVERSATION PROMPTS TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS, FRIENDSHIPS, AND MUTUAL RESPECT!

Whether your group already knows each other well or is just meeting for the first time, the Getting Acquainted Thumball Set will have a perfect set of discussion prompts. The set of 6 Silver Series Thumballs offers almost 200 discussion topics to stimulate conversation. Choose a ball that will help stir up simple conversation or develop deeper, more meaningful relationships. The balls are super easy to use! Just toss it to another player and ask the recipient to look under their thumb and respond to the prompt. With this playful tool, you'll:

• Learn what makes your teammates unique with WHAT MAKES YOU YOU
• Find COMMON GROUND with others in your group
• Open your group up to more meaningful sharing with SESSION OPENERS?
• Learn where folks fall on a variety of continuums with WHICH ARE YOU AND WHY?
• Understand how others were SHAPED BY THEIR PAST
• GET TO KNOW friend, family or colleagues a little better

The Getting Acquainted Thumball Set is conveniently packaged in a large mesh bag, which allows you to carry them around comfortably and stay organized.

Each Silver Series Thumball™ (6" stuffed vinyl ball) looks like a cool soccer ball but is pre-printed with 32 questions/discussion prompts. They are suited for adults and teens alike! Following are more details about each of the popular Silver Series Thumballs in the Getting Acquainted set:

• Use the What Makes You YOU Thumballto help your team learn more about the people around them and dig a little deeper than typical, superficial icebreakers questions.
• The Common Ground Thumball prompts help players discover shared experiences and interests. As you try to generate conversation to build new friendships and relationships, a key challenge is finding “common ground.” This ball offers a fun way to uncover these commonalities.
• The Session Openers Thumball is a great way to set the groundwork for deeper conversations. It was developed to help groups scratch below the surface and explore motivations, goals, and what makes you tick.
• On the Which are You and Why? Thumball each prompt offers an “either/or” choice so that players can share where they'd put themselves on the spectrum –Lake or Ocean; Whisper or Yell; Words or Pictures; Lead or Follow; etc.—making this a fun and unusual icebreaker.
• The Shaped by Our Past Thumball brings to light each person's personal history. After all, we are who we are today because of our lifetime of experiences. Encourage your group to share details of their past -- school, friends, family, hobbies, challenges, and more!
• The Getting to Know You Thumball asks probing questions that get to your phobias, wishes, and favorite moments. For individuals who know each other pretty well already, it's an excellent way to dig a little deeper and learn something more!

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

COMPARE THUMBALL® SETS

Note: Each Thumball® is a soft 6-inch stuffed ball with 32 conversation prompts. Every set comes with a free mesh bag for storage and portability.

MORE RESOURCES

• All about Silver Series Thumballs
• Tips & Suggestion on Facilitating Thumball Experiences
• How Deep to Discuss
• 7 Tips to formulate great questions
• More tools for great conversations
• Discover Your Thumball Style
• How Deep to Discuss Infographic

Keep participants engaged in learning by frequently soliciting their input and responses. See how each learner is retaining and applying your lessons with individual dry-erase boards. The 30 BLUE Quick Response Whiteboards Set includes thirty handheld, two-sided, dry-erase response boards with ergonomic blue handles and thirty mini-erasers—all packaged in a clear, portable tote bag. With these Trainers Warehouse Exclusive answer boards, trainers can rapidly solicit feedback, votes, answers, ratings, and icebreaker responses from every participant in the room.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• 30 two-sided whiteboards with sturdy blue handles (5.9" × 7.75")
• 30 felted mini-erasers (2.5" × 1.25" × 0.65")
• Clear tote bag for storage and portability (formerly sold with hanging rack)

KEY BENEFITS OF QUICK RESPONSE BOARDS FOR CLASSROOMS

• Instant engagement: Everyone participates simultaneously—no waiting your turn
• Versatile use: Perfect for icebreakers, polling, Q&A, quizzes, rankings, or sharing responses visually. Also great for Jeopardy "final answer" boards!
• Durable design: Double-sided, easy to erase, with felt erasers included. Hole in bottom of handle allows trainers to hang them on a peg, as well.
• Portable storage: Tote bag keeps everything together and easy to grab

IDEAS FOR USE

• Conduct icebreaker activities
• Ask everyone to write and hold up their word-of-the-day or learning takeaway
• Use them for silent brainstorming
• Invite participants to answer a question
• Poll the group, have them rank ideas, or vote on options
• Have all participants answer an icebreaker question
• Share game answers
• Pair with virtual participants by sharing via webcam or annotating digitally

FAQS

Q: What activities work best with these quick response boards for classrooms?
A: Great for icebreakers, live polls, quick quizzes, ranking exercises, and visual Q&A—any activity where everyone responds simultaneously.

Q: Are they durable and portable?
A: Yes—each board is sturdy with a solid handle, and the clear tote bag keeps all 30 boards and erasers organized and portable.

Q: How do I clean them?
A: Wipe the surface with a dry cloth or use the included felt mini-eraser—boards wipe clean easily with no ghosting.

Q: Can I include remote learners?
A: Absolutely. Hold your board in front of a webcam or have someone write for the remote attendees—this keeps everyone visually connected.

Q: Are replacement erasers or boards available?
A: Yes—find mini-eraser packs and single whiteboards in our accessories under “Dry Erase Everything.”

View Video Demos!

DaBridge brings Leonardo DaVinci's simple but ingenious bridge idea to life. It is made with beautiful and sturdy notched wooden stick and dowel pieces. The ingenuity of the bridge is that it doesn’t need nails or fasteners to hold it together. If built to Leonardo’s design, it gets stronger the more weight is added.

LEONARDO DAVINCI BRIDGE - INCLUDES

The DaVinci Bridge Kit includes legs and dowels to create a 6.5-foot long structure -- plenty long enough for several adults to collaborate in the building process!

• 16 square wooden legs - 24" long x 1" square
• 8 wooden dowels - 24" long x 3/4" diameter
• Convenient carry bag

ADAPTABLE FACILITATION NOTES

Robust facilitation notes provide plenty of options to make the classic DaVinci's Bridge a successful team building experience for all sorts of teams. In the basic game, a "designer" is equipped with a picture of the finished product, but isn't allowed to show the picture to the builders. Designers can only communicate building tips verbally. With limited team meetings, how well will your groups work together to get it built? Adapt the team building game to the needs of your group by adding in new challenges -- an earthquake hits; time pressure is added; intergroup colloboration is required.

• Complete notes for Architects/Builders Game
• 4 additional game variations
• Debriefing and review questions

VIEW THE VIDEO

NOTE: When completed, DaBridge measures 6.5' Long by 2' Wide and 2' High, so make sure your team has ample space to build

Hand-made in the USA.

WHY FACILITATORS LOVE IT

• Big lessons from a simple challenge: Teams quickly see how assumptions, group dynamics, and communication affect outcomes.
• Memorable metaphor: The floating stick represents how small forces and hidden resistance can derail teamwork if left unaddressed.
• Low prep, high engagement: Set up in seconds, but provides rich material for 15–30 minutes of activity and debrief.
• Professional build: Unlike homemade dowels, this lightweight, finished rod is balanced for consistency and built to last through years of workshops.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Discover how group assumptions can sabotage performance
• Practice clear communication and active listening
• Explore leadership, role clarity, and patience under pressure
• Learn strategies to reset, regroup, and succeed together

HOW TO PLAY

1. Divide into two lines, facing each other, index fingers extended.
2. Balance the Helium Stick® across everyone’s fingers.
3. Challenge: lower the stick to the ground while keeping every finger in contact.
4. Debrief: What made it harder than expected? How did the team adjust to succeed?

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• One professional-grade Helium Stick® (collapsible, lightweight rod). The 10-foot-long Helium Stick folds to 12 inches for easy transportation and assembly.
• Facilitation guide with variations and debriefing questions

BEST USES

• Team-building workshops
• Leadership training
• Onboarding activities
• Conference energizers

PAIR WITH: For variation and comparative debriefs, try TeamWRITER (interdependence & listening) or PuzzleBlind (trust & role clarity). Add game-show energy with Me First wireless buzzers.

FAQS

Q: How is this version different from a homemade dowel?
A: Trainers Warehouse’s Helium Stick® is a finished, lightweight, collapsible rod designed for easy transport and reliable facilitation—no splinters, unwieldy length, or awkward storage.

Q: How long does it take?
A: Expect 5 minutes to set up the activity. A typical attempt takes 10–15 minutes, followed by a debrief. Total time: about 20–30 minutes.

Q: What’s the ideal group size?
A: Best for 8–12 participants per stick. Larger groups can divide into teams with multiple rods.

Q: What do teams learn from this?
A: Key lessons include the importance of communication, alignment, and overcoming group assumptions to achieve a shared goal.

HELIUM STICK TEAM BUILDING FACILITATION TIPS

• Line up in two rows which face each other.
• Introduce the Helium Stick game.
• Ask participants to point their index fingers and hold their arms out.
• Lay the stick down on their fingers. Get the group to adjust their finger heights until the Helium Stick is horizontal and everyone's index fingers are touching the stick. Explain that the challenge is to lower the Helium Stick to the ground.
• The catch: Each person's fingers must be in contact with the Helium Stick at all times. Pinching or grabbing the pole is not allowed - it must rest on top of fingers.
• Reiterate to the group that if anyone's finger is caught not touching the Helium Stick, the task will be restarted. Let the task begin....
• Warning: Particularly in the early stages, the Helium Stick has a habit of mysteriously 'floating' up rather than coming down, causing much laughter. A bit of clever humoring can help - e.g., act surprised and ask what they are doing raising the Helium Stick instead of lowering it! For added drama, jump up and pull it down!

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The stick does not contain helium. The secret is that the collective upwards pressure created by everyone's fingers tends to be greater than the weight of the Helium Stick. As a result, the more a group tries, the more the stick tends to 'float' upwards.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

As your group begins their challenge in the Helium Stick game, see how individuals react when the rod starts moving in the exactly opposite direction than they intended. What do they do? You may find that players start blaming each other. The more the stick rises, the more they point fingers and accuse one another by asking, “What are YOU doing?”

This observation can lead to an important learning point: that they won't find solutions without shifting from telling to asking and without assuming responsibility for and ownership of the results. For instance, they might ask: Why is this happening to US? What can WE do differently? How can WE come up with another strategy?

SOME HELIUM STICK TEAM BUILDING PROCESSING IDEAS:

• What was the initial reaction of the group?
• How well did the group cope with this challenge?
• What skills did it take to be successful as a group?
• What creative solutions were suggested and how were they received?
• What would an outside observer have seen as the strengths and weaknesses of the group?

NOTE: to download the Helium Stick Facilitation Notes, refresh this webpage (or visit the page in an "incognito window"). Then, enter your info in the pop-up.

COMPARISON CHART

Not sure which team-building activity is right for your group? Trainers Warehouse offers a variety of experiential learning games that build skills in communication, collaboration, adaptability, leadership, and conflict resolution. Use the chart below to compare five of our most popular activities—PuzzleBlind®, Helium Stick®, TeamWRITER®, Shape Up!®, and Team 10®—and choose the one that best fits your training goals, group size, and workshop format.

Desktop toys help people relax, stay focused during long meetings, and think creatively. Our desk fidgets come in an elegant, clear box, so that it will look neat and professional on your desktop while they tempt your colleagues and office mates.

You can always share with your colleagues or simply keep them to yourself. Because different moods call for different tactile experiences, the Desktop Fiddle Set has a nice varied assortment for all situations and emergencies. They also make fantastic rewards for employees or students.

FEATURES

• 8 favorite fidget toys (a.k.a. fiddles)
• Substitutions may occur.
• Conveniently packed in a sturdy, clear plastic storage bo
• Box measures: 3-5/8" x 3-5/8" x 5-1/4"

These desktop toys really do enrich the "sensory diet" of your learners. Our fidgets may look like toys to the untrained eye, but they’re truly serious learning tools. Kinesthetic learners will focus better and absorb information quicker if they have something to do with their hands.

From balls and squeezies to finger fidgets and more, we make it easy for you to purchase fiddle sets in bulk so you can share with the whole office or class. Before checking out, be sure to browse all our desktop Toys & Fidgets and our Happy at Work collection for more fun items that encourage an engaging environment. Experience the power of desk fidgets!

View Free Facilitation Notes for using Fiddles in the Classroom!

MORE RESOURCES

• Fidget Matrix
• Five Factors for Fabulous Fidgets
• Sanitizing Fidget Toys
• Favorite Fidgets for ADHD
• Data on Fidgets Improving Engagement
• Taming Distractions and Managing Floating Attention
• How to Choose the Best Fidget for Your Group Infographic

Flexygon® - a colorful endlessly flexible hexaflexagon-shaped fidget toy - is Trainers Warehouse latest exclusive finger fidget toy. We designed Flexygon to fit in the palm of your hand and to roll endlessly through your fingertips. With a hole in the middle and creases at each section of the firm silicon hexaflexagon, you can endlessly roll Flexygon inside and out. The colorful swirl pattern adds to the mesmerizing look of the fidget. (PATENT #1,073,956)

FLEXYGON FEATURES:

• Colorful - Each Flexygon comes in a swirl pattern of 2 colors (Blue/Yellow and Red/Yellow). We pick and ship the colors randomly for your order. [NOTE: Images may not indicate the color we have in stock.]
• Silent - The flexible silicon is very quiet to support inconspicuous fidgeting
• Smooth - Its smooth texture provides a soothing feel for even the roughest of hands

Typical Flexahexagons or Hexaflexagons or whatever you call 'em, are flimsy, folded, origami constructions, made of paper. But, Flexygon is a durable version of the familiar origami shape.

Patent Pending

SEE IT IN ACTION!

FIDGET TO FOCUS

Are you concerned that fidget toys will cause more harm than good? That they'll actually cause more distraction? You're not alone. However, many workshop and meeting attendees swear by them. They say, "OMG, with fidget toys we just had our best meeting ever!" Office fidget toys are found to create a more playful and relaxed environment, thereby reducing stress. They also use up "floating attention" -- the wandering attention that likely kept us alive in prehistoric times. Nowadays, learners who have ADD/ADHD, are naturally fidgety, or consider themselves kinesthetic learners find that fidget toys allow them to remain focused for longer periods of time and absorb new material more quickly!

MORE RESOURCES

• Tips & Suggestions on Using Fidget and Fiddle Toys
• Fidget Matrix
• Five Factors for Fabulous Fidgets
• Sanitizing Fidget Toys
• Favorite Fidgets for ADHD
• Data on Fidgets improving Engagement
• Taming Distractions and Managing Floating Attention
• How to Choose the Best Fidget for Your Group Infographic

Deluxe Collection of 24 Fidget Toys!

Our fidgets and "fiddles" may look like toys to the untrained eye, but they are truly serious learning tools. Kinesthetic learners will focus better and absorb your material more quickly if they have something to do with their hands.

This pre-selected collection of 24 kinesthetic learning tools has been specially tested and selected mindless "fiddlebility."

Actual items may vary from image above.

Comes in its own plastic storage box, measuring 13.5" x 8" x 6". Total weight: under 4 lbs.

Click here to view FREE Facilitation Notes!

MORE RESOURCES

• Fidget Matrix
• Five Factors for Fabulous Fidgets
• Sanitizing Fidget Toys
• Favorite Fidgets for ADHD
• Data on Fidgets improving Engagement
• Taming Distractions and Managing Floating Attention
• How to Choose the Best Fidget for Your Group Infographic

Padded Certificate Presentation Folders add elegance and durability to any award or recognition moment. Designed for 8.5″ × 11″ certificates, these folders feature a padded cover, stitched edges, and a moiré fabric lining—turning a simple certificate into a keepsake. Perfect for graduations, training programs, employee recognition, or professional certifications.

WHY FACILITATORS & HR TEAMS LOVE THEM

• Professional presentation: Elevates certificates from “just paper” to something worthy of display.
• Memorable impact: Reinforces the importance of milestones, making recognition feel special.
• Durable keepsake: Padded cover with stitched edges protects documents for years.
• Polished interior: Moiré fabric lining with ribbon corners holds certificates securely in place.
• Versatile use: Ideal for employee awards, training program completions, academic achievements, or membership recognitions.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Holds 8.5″ × 11″ certificates
• Leather-like, padded cover with stitched edges (university-style)
• Moiré fabric lining with corner ribbons
• Clear plastic sheet keeps the certificate in pristine condition
• Available in black and navy
• Buy in bulk to save

BEST USES

• Corporate award ceremonies
• Graduations and commencements
• Employee training and development recognition
• Certification programs and professional associations

FAQS

Q: How is the certificate presentation folder different from a standard certificate folder?
A: Unlike flat paper folders, this version is padded and fabric-lined, creating a premium look and feel for important recognition events.

Q: What size certificates fit inside?
A: These are designed for standard 8.5″ × 11″ certificates, diplomas, and awards.

Q: Who uses these most?
A: HR departments, corporate training teams, schools, universities, and professional associations use them to honor achievements with dignity.

Q: Are they reusable?
A: Yes. As long as the folder is kept in good condition, you can reuse it for different ceremonies and recipients.

Presentation is everything, especially when you’re giving someone a certificate of achievement. This exquisite padded certificate holder is just one example of the quality products we have available at Trainers Warehouse. Be sure to browse our Awards & Recognition collection for similar products.

Place your bulk certificate folder order with full confidence, knowing that our products are backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Super Deluxe Fiddle Set – 48-piece collection delivers “a little bit of everything” in fidget tools—perfect for training rooms, workshops, and medium-sized groups. With a wide array of stretchy, squeezable, flexible, and tactile fiddles, this set of quiet fidget toys for training supports relaxation, focus, and energy release—and comes in a durable draw-string storage bag.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• 48 assorted fiddles—mix of stretch, flex, squeeze, shape, mold, twist, and more

KEY BENEFITS OF PROFESSIONAL FIDGETS FOR MEETINGS

• Variety-packed: Tailored to every tactile preference in the group
• Engagement support: Helps users stay both attentive and calm during sessions
• Ideal for medium-sized groups: Great for workshops, classrooms, and breakout sessions
• Portable & durable: Draw-string bag keeps everything together and ready to go

FAQS

Q: How does this compare to other fiddle sets?
A: At 48 pieces, the Super Deluxe sits between the 24-piece Deluxe and the massive 84-piece Kitchen Sink sets—offering both variety and manageability for medium groups.

Q: What kinds of fidget motions are included?
A: Expect a dynamic mix—stretch, flex, twist, squeeze, mold, and manipulate across both large and small items, and both gentle and more engaging textures.

Q: How do I clean them?
A: Most pieces are plastic and dishwasher-safe; for delicate items, lightly wipe with a sanitized cloth.

Q: Can this fit into existing training kits?
A: Yes—the draw-string bag is portable and compact enough to tuck into tote cases or be stored on a shelf.

Q: Who benefits most from this set?
A: Facilitators, trainers, teachers, HR professionals, and learners themselves —anyone working with medium-sized groups who want versatile tactile tools to improve focus, relieve stress, and boost engagement. While children also benefit from fidget tools, Trainers Warehouse focuses on creating a professional fidget set for meeting attendees.

WHY TRAINERS WAREHOUSE FIDGETS?

This super-versatile 48-piece collection has a little of everything. That is... everything that meets our Trainers Warehouse criteria for an excellent fidget toy! It must be:

• Durable
• Have an interesting motion: stretching, flexing, squeezing, shaping, molding, etc.
• Look good but not so good that it becomes a distratction
• Build relaxation and focus in learning events and meetings
• Help your group feel more at ease!
• Not be too loud or distracting to other learners.

This terrific set comes in its own durable draw-string plastic storage bag and weighs about 5 lbs.

(Substitutions occasionally necessary).

MORE RESOURCES

• Tips & Suggestions on Using Fidget and Fiddle Toys
• Fidget Matrix
• Five Factors for Fabulous Fidgets
• Sanitizing Fidget Toys
• Favorite Fidgets for ADHD
• Data on Fidgets improving Engagement
• Taming Distractions and Managing Floating Attention
• How to Choose the Best Fidget for Your Group Infographic

Kitchen Sink Fiddle Set (84-piece collection) is the ultimate assortment of quiet fidget toys for adults -- for training, classrooms, and office use—delivered in a stylish, clear tote bag. These “fiddles” may look like toys at first glance, but they’re carefully curated engagement tools that help kinesthetic learners focus, reduce stress, and absorb material faster. This is a colossal collection of the BEST FIDDLES we know of! Indeed, it includes everything -- but the kitchen sink!

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• 84 assorted fidget toys (“fiddles”)—plenty of options for shaping, squeezing, flexing, stretching, and manipulating
• Clear tote* bag for easy transport, storage, and on-the-spot visibility
• Contents may vary—each set offers unique tactile experiences

KEY BENEFITS

• Variety for every style: With 84 fidget tools, you’ll always have something that suits each participant’s preference
• Kinesthetic engagement: Hands-on fiddling helps learners stay focused and improves information retention
• Stress relief: Ideal for reducing anxiety during training sessions or meetings
• Clear tote bag: Durable, see-through bag keeps fiddles tidy and shows off the fun contents
• Trainer-tested: Includes the very best fiddles Trainers Warehouse has curated—like a “kitchen sink” of engagement tools

HOW TO USE

• Start your session by passing around fiddles—invite participants to select one that fits their attention needs.
• Use fiddles during group discussions to channel nervous energy and increase focus.
• Collect feedback: “Which fiddle worked best?” or “What did you notice?”—build awareness of sensory preferences.
• Bring them out at the start of your session—leave them on participant tables or at the front of the room.

FAQS

Q: What types of fiddles are included?
A: In our professional fidget sets, you’ll always get a huge mix of shapes and textures—stretchy, squeezable, twistable, and clickable fiddles. The specific variety may differ slightly per set.

Q: How do I clean them?
A: Most pieces are plastic and can go through a gentle dishwasher cycle. For specifics, check out the Trainers Warehouse blog: https://blog.trainerswarehouse.com/sanitize-fidget-toys

Q: How can I ensure that the fidget toys won’t be distracting?
A: Trainers Warehouse carefully selects tools that are quiet and not distracting to either the learner or others in the room.

Q: What’s the value of fidget tools anyway?
A: Not only do they occupy fidget fingers, they also help kinesthetic learners by making learning a physical as well as mental experience. Fidget tools harness “floating attention” that would otherwise distract learners in more significant ways—like daydreaming, focusing on others in the room, or staring out the window.

COMPARE FIDDLE SETS

Note: All sets include a wide variety of quiet, trainer-tested fidget tools that can be sanitized and reused (except Walk-Away, which is designed for gifting). Specific items vary by set to keep the mix fresh and engaging.

Note: All sets include a wide variety of quiet, trainer-tested fidget tools that can be sanitized and reused. Specific items vary by set to keep the mix fresh and engaging.

Click here to view FREE Facilitation Notes!

*The Tote bag is printed on the front with this text:
"This bag is not a toy. Putting it over your head could cause suffocation, which would really ruin your day. Better to put all your great stuff in it so that people look at you with envy as you walk by, wondering both where you got all your things and where you got your awesome see-through bag, to which you can reply, "You can get one, too, at Trainers Warehouse or Office Oxygen, and they're a 'baahgin.' That's New England-speak for 'bargain'." And by the way, it's true that objects in the side view mirror are closer than they appear, but the wonderful items in your beautiful, clear bag really are just as they appear!"

MORE RESOURCES

• Tips & Suggestions on Using Fidget and Fiddle Toys
• Fidget Matrix
• Five Factors for Fabulous Fidgets
• Sanitizing Fidget Toys
• Favorite Fidgets for ADHD
• Data on Fidgets improving Engagement
• Taming Distractions and Managing Floating Attention
• How to Choose the Best Fidget for Your Group Infographic

PuzzleBlind® Team-Building Game is an immersive corporate training activity designed to strengthen communication, trust, and role clarity. In this exercise, blindfolded builders must assemble a puzzle while coaches provide verbal instructions. The challenge highlights teamwork, leadership, and the importance of clear communication—making it a favorite for leadership retreats, manager training, conflict resolution workshops, and corporate team-building events.

WHY FACILITATORS LOVE IT

• High-impact learning: Teams immediately see how poor communication creates misalignment and how clarity builds success.
• Versatile: Works as a leadership exercise, energizer, or corporate icebreaker.
• Memorable experience: Blindfolds and timed construction create an engaging challenge with lasting lessons.
• Practical debrief: Surfaces real workplace issues like unclear directions, assumptions, and role confusion.
• Role clarity: Teams shift between strategists (coaches) and executors (builders), exploring leadership styles and decision-making dynamics.
• Trust under pressure: Without sight, participants must trust instructions and each other—trust becomes both the method and the lesson.
• Adjustable difficulty: Add or remove rules (e.g., only coaches speak, all blindfolded, one question per turn) to scale challenge and insights.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

This game is a useful tool to discuss the following interteam-dynamics:

• Improve communication and listening skills
• Build trust and team alignment when solving problems
• Clarify roles and responsibilities, including choosing and developing leaders
• Practice conflict resolution and problem-solving
• Increase confidence in leading and coaching others
• Listening to multiple speakers and perspectives and addressing when teammates talk over each other

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Puzzle pieces set -- Oversized puzzle have texture on one side
• Durable blindfolds for team members
• Facilitator guide with setup, instructions, and debrief prompts
• Reusable tote bag for easy storage and transport

BEST USES

• Corporate training and leadership development programs
• Team-building workshops and offsite retreats
• Conflict resolution or communication skills training
• Energizer or icebreaker at the start of a meeting
• Hybrid or remote team sessions (with creative adaptation)
• Leadership development by rotating roles and debriefing leadership behavior

FAQS

Q: What’s the ideal group size?
A: Flexible—typically 4–8 players per puzzle, but works well with parallel teams for larger groups.

Q: What skills do participants develop?
A: Teams practice communication, trust, listening, coaching, and conflict resolution—all under realistic workplace-like conditions.

Q: What materials are included?
A: Each kit comes with puzzle pieces, blindfolds, a facilitator guide, and a tote bag. All materials are durable, safe, and reusable.

Q: Who benefits most from this activity?
A: Trainers, HR teams, managers, and leaders running workshops on communication, collaboration, and team trust.

Q: How long does it take?
A: Plan for a 30+ minute activity—15 minutes to strategize and play, plus debrief time.

FACILITATING PUZZLEBLIND

Before you begin:

• Scatter the puzzle pieces on the ground with the textured side up (the other side is smooth).
• Assemble your team around the puzzle
• Let them know that some portion of their team will need to assemble the puzzle blindfolded.
• 1 RULE: Only blindfolded players can touch the puzzle pieces
• Give teams up to 10 minutes to strategize -- to choose a leader(s), decide how many players (and who) will be blindfolded, etc.
• NOTE: see below for additional facilitation choices that will increase the challenge.

Expect the game to take 30+ minutes depending on your group and the depth of your debrief.

PUZZLEBLIND AS A TEAM BUILDING GAME

When playing PuzzleBlind, facilitators can adjust the experience to focus on a range of communication and teambuilding challenges. Consider some of these options:

• One coach & many builders - See what happens when only one team member is sighted, and all the others are blindfolded. While the coach is directing one builder, what do the others do? How do they communicate with each other? Are they talking over each other? Do they wait for the leadership of the only one with vision?
• Two coaches & one builder - Explore how the two coaches interact. Are they both shouting instructions? Is one determining which pieces should fit together, and the other focused on communicating to the builder?
• Multiple coaches & multiple builders - Watch to see how they organize themselves and communicate with one another as you add more people to the challenge. Do they include everyone in the group or are just a few interacting?

Increase the difficulty by adding these rules:

• Only the coaches can speak; builders must be silent.
• All players are blindfolded... no sighted coaches.
• Each builder can ask only one question of the coach.
• Only one person can speak at a time.

PUZZLEBLIND PUZZLE PIECES

The game was designed to optimize the team building experience:

• Each of the 12 pieces are shaped so that each can be uniquely described.
• Every piece is recognizably different from every other piece.
• Foam material is extremely light weight so players can move pieces around easily.
• Giant size makes the activity suitable for groups of 2-6 adults.
• Multiple completed puzzles fit together, extending the application of the game to inter-group collaboration.
• Finished puzzle measures 4.5' x 6' / Individual pieces measure approximately 20" x 20"
• One side of the pieces has a texture, the other is smooth.
• 6 Blindfolds are included

SPACE & SET UP

Be sure you have ample space for the players and the puzzle. The completed puzzle measures approximately 6' x 4.5'.

Depending on the number of coaches and builders you choose, you might opt to keep all the puzzle pieces stacked in a pile or laid out on the ground.

ADDITIONAL FACILITATION NOTES ARE INCLUDED WITH THE GAME

COMPARISON CHART

Not sure which team-building activity is right for your group? Trainers Warehouse offers a variety of experiential learning games that build skills in communication, collaboration, adaptability, leadership, and conflict resolution. Use the chart below to compare five of our most popular activities—PuzzleBlind®, Helium Stick®, TeamWRITER®, Shape Up!®, and Team 10®—and choose the one that best fits your training goals, group size, and workshop format.

The Trainers Warehouse one-of-a-kind Reusable Dry-Erase Name Tents – Boxed Set of 12 help facilitators avoid the awkwardness of forgetting names while leading a group. Each dry-erase tent card makes it easy for participants to display their name throughout the session. When using the two-sided employee name tents for training sessions, facilitators and fellow participants can see names from both sides. Even better, the cards double as interactive tools for meeting and learning activities—invite learners to write answers, draw pictures, or vote on questions, and then hold up their tents to poll the group.

Check out our quantity discounts! Also available in a smaller space-saving size (3" H x 8.75") -- See #TCLBM10.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• 12 reusable dry-erase tent cards (4" H x 11" L x 3"D)
• Compact storage box for easy transport and safekeeping

KEY FEATURES OF CLASSROOM NAME TENTS FOR TEACHERS AND FACILITATORS

• Never forget a name: professional, reusable name tents ensure facilitators always know participants by name
• Interactive learning: use tents for polling, quick answers, drawings, and group activities
• Reusable & eco-friendly: write, wipe, and reuse for every training session—no need to reprint
• Professional look: clean white surface with clear visibility across the room
• Convenient size: boxed set of 12 is ideal for breakout groups or smaller workshops
• Complete kit: markers and erasers included for each card
• Molded construction: Stacking and storage are easier than ever.
• No ghosting! Use tents again and again with dry-erase markers (SOLD SEPARATELY).

COMMON USES

• Corporate training sessions & workshops
• Classrooms & student desk tents
• Meetings & breakout groups
• Interactive activities, polling, and brainstorming

FAQS

Q: How are these different from disposable tent cards?
A: Unlike paper tents, these dry-erase tents can be wiped clean and reused for countless sessions, saving money and time.

Q: What comes in the box?
A: The neatly-packed boxed set includes 12 reusable dry-erase tent cards.

Q: How do facilitators use them beyond names?
A: Ask participants to jot down answers, draw a symbol representing and interest or learning point, or respond to a question—then hold up their tent to share with the group. It’s a quick way to check understanding and boost engagement.

Q: Are they easy to clean?
A: Yes. Simply wipe the off with a dry cloth or tissue.

Q: Who benefits most from these?
A: Trainers, facilitators, teachers, and anyone running workshops, classes, or meetings where both name recognition and engagement matter.

Save time printing formal name cards. Instead, ask participants to write their names on the Original Reuasable Name Card -- LARGE two-sided dry-erasable name tents. The tents make your life easier and increase participant's comfort because they can write in a nickname, and be called by the name they prefer! So many benefits to Reusable Dry-Erase Name Tents.

** TIPS **

Reusable Name Tents don't just save you from printing and folding paper cards, they allow users to write in nick names, answer questions, or even share a favorite quote. They're great for:

• Executive session name plates – save meeting participants the embarrassment of forgetting a name. Encourage them to write their nickname on the name tent.
• Icebreaker activities – Instead of just a name or nickname, ask meeting or training participants to draw an icon that represents something important to them. Or, have them share a favorite quote. Even ask them to write down a goal for the day.
• Table signage – No time print out signage? Write something out on a write-on / wipe-off table sign.

MORE RESOURCES

• Explore the Benefits of Name Tents
• Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and the Imiportance of Belonging
• The History of Dry-Erase Name Tents and other TW Products

Team 10 is a team assessment and group challenge activity that encourages accurate communication, adaptation, and creative problem-solving. Team 10 is an ideal table game for conferences, training events, workshops, or other group gatherings. Play the game with 2-12 players. Expect 10-20 minutes for game play, plus 10-15 for a debriefing and discussion.

SUPER-EASY TO FACILITATE

OVERVIEW: Taking turns, each player will flip 2 cards at a time, until the team reveals 10 cards with all Xs or all Os

PLAYERS: Play the game with 2-12 players.

TIMING: Expect 10-20 minutes for game play, plus 10-15 for a debriefing and discussion.

SET UP:

1. Randomly place the following 22 cards face down on a table:
2. 18 Xs and Os (Either 10 “X” and 8 “O” OR 10 “O” and 8 “X” cards).
3. 4 “Word” cards (Kaboom, Move it, Swap 2, Scramble)
4. Scatter the “Rules” cards face up for easy reference.
5. Invite the group to gather around, read through the rules, and check for understanding, Encourage the group to spend a minute or two planning how they will proceed before starting the game.

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE TEAM 10 DECK

The deck has all you need to effectively facilitate and play Team 10:

• HOW TO PLAY Facilitation Notes
• RULES - 2 cards show the rules so that they're visible to all players
• LEARNING TAKEAWAYS - typical learning points drawn from playing the Team 10 communication game
• REVIEW & REFLECTION IDEAS - 12 questions to reflect, debrief, and discuss the game, focusing on preparation, play, and going forward
• X and O cards - we include a few extra for two reasons: 1) you have a replacement card if you lose one; and 2) so you can switch up with is the winning "hand"
• "WORD" cards - These cards (Kaboom, Move it, Swap 2, Scramble) interrupt players mid-game, requiring them to regroup, restrategize, and reflect on how different players deal with adversity or interruptions.

THE RULES

These guidelines help both the facilitator and players maximize the game experience:

1. Player can flip only two cards face up OR two cards face down, during each turn.
2. Player cannot turn one card face-up and another card face-down in the same turn.
3. Each card must remain in the same general location (unless instructed otherwise).
4. A maximum of 10 cards can be face-up at any time.
5. If a card with a word appears, quickly follow the instructions on the card.
6. Take turns flipping cards. Include every team member.
7. No taking notes or pictures! All communication must be verbal.
8. The game ends when 10 cards with the same symbol are face-up, and all others are face down.

FACILITATION TIPS

TAKE AWAYS

Typical insights from successfully completing the Team 10 challenge include:

• Heightened awareness of the skills and talents present in the team.
• Impact of committing to a single course of action; difficulty in changing direction after a goal is set.
• Exploring various techniques for problem solving, generating solutions, creativity, adaptability, communication, consensus building, teamwork and decision making.
• The ability to work with time limitations and adapt to setbacks.
• Abiding by rules can be challenging; some may be more comfortable with bending or questioning rules.
• The importance of honesty and ethical behavior.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH, LEARNING, AND DISCUSSION

Team 10 is a versatile game that can bring out many learning moments.
Just by watching teams play for as little as 10 minutes, you will have a
glimpse into the skills of your groups, seeing how they deal with a variety
of team dynamics:

• Decision Making. How do they make decisions? Do they listen
  to a range of perspectives or the loudest voice? How do they function as a group?
• Divergent perspectives. How do they make sure everyone’s voice is heard? Do they see issues
  from a variety of different angles? How does shifting positions or putting themselves in
  another’s shoes change their view?
• Dealing with adversity. What happens to a group when something unexpected happens (i.e. if
  they’re working on a project but a key vendor falls through)? How do they capture, remember,
  and draw on organizational memories?
• Rule‐following & Ethics. What do teams do if they inadvertently break a rule? How do
  individuals respond? How does the team respond? Who blows the whistle? What if it’s on
  purpose? How does the team manage such ethical challenges?
• Importance of Strategizing and Planning. What are the benefits of preparation and discussion?
  How can teams get everyone on the same page from the start? Why is that important? How do
  they balance the need for strategizing with the amount of time it can take?
• Leadership. How do leaders emerge? What does leadership look like? How do leaders make
  others feel? How do teams build inclusion and reach consensus?
• Dealing with Frustration. Frustration happens in real life. The question is how people deal with
  it. Do they give up, act out, charge forward, move with haste, or pause to regroup?

Of course, which of these the facilitator focuses on will depend on: 1) the team’s experience during the
game, 2) organizational needs, and 3) the facilitator’s ability to identify and home in on pertinent
learning moments.

DRAWING OUT THESE TEACHABLE MOMENTS – FINAL DEBRIEF OR STOP‐ACTION
Understanding your goals, you can draw out conversations and reflection EITHER during play or after. If
you notice a teachable moment. Feel free to stop action and discuss any of these questions right when
they see the “teachable moment.”

©Trainers Warehouse. TEAM 10 was developed by Guido Cremonesi of Simple Training (www.simpletraining.it) and Jim Cain of Teamwork & Teamplay (www.teamworkandteamplay.com) and produced by Trainers Warehouse (www.trainerswarehouse.com).

COMPARISON CHART

Not sure which team-building activity is right for your group? Trainers Warehouse offers a variety of experiential learning games that build skills in communication, collaboration, adaptability, leadership, and conflict resolution. Use the chart below to compare five of our most popular activities—PuzzleBlind®, Helium Stick®, TeamWRITER®, Shape Up!®, and Team 10®—and choose the one that best fits your training goals, group size, and workshop format.

In this game of communication and collaboration, blindfolded players must figure out which of the shapes that they hold is a duplicate. Success requires clear and concise communication, active listening, and collaboration, as several of the shapes could be easily confused with each other.

The facilitator will instruct players,

“Without looking at your shapes, determine which players have matching shapes.” Optionally, you can let them know that only two players will have matching shapes. Or, you can throw in more matches and NOT tell them how many will be a match (this is much more difficult!)

CONTENTS OF SHAPE-UP

This communication and teambuilding game contains:

• 26 wooden shapes (2 each of 13 different shapes)
• 10 blindfolds

MORE TEAM BUILDING FACILITATION OPTIONS

In addition to the Shape-Up game, facilitation notes include 5 additional game ideas including:

1. PARTNER PAIR-UPS - players use the 13 different shapes to find a partner (one with either a matching or complementary shape)

2. BEHIND-THE-BACK PARTNER PAIR-UPS - without seeing the shape that they hold, players must find the person who has their matching shape.

3. SHAPE-UP ICEBREAKER INTROS - using the shapes a metaphors, players pick a shape that reminds them of a personal experience (or a learning goal; or a characteristic they’re proud of; etc.)

4. METAPHORICAL DISCUSSIONS & DEBRIEFS - players choose a shape that represents an observation, question, or learning point, and share their metaphorical reflections with the whole group.

5. SHAPE-ly DEBRIEF & REFLECTION QUESTIONS - conduct a "S.H.A.P.E.ly" debrief

S – SHAPES - discuss what was difficult about describing the shapes

H – HELPFUL/HURTFUL - identify approaches that were helpful or hurtful to the effort

A – ACTIONS - focus on actions and break-through moments

P - PREPERATION - draw out the impact of preparation as teams approached the challenge

E – END RESULTS - discuss the group's satisfaction with their end-result

©Trainers Warehouse. SHAPE-UP is a collaboration between Teamwork & Teamplay and Trainers Warehouse.

COMPARISON CHART

Not sure which team-building activity is right for your group? Trainers Warehouse offers a variety of experiential learning games that build skills in communication, collaboration, adaptability, leadership, and conflict resolution. Use the chart below to compare five of our most popular activities—PuzzleBlind®, Helium Stick®, TeamWRITER®, Shape Up!®, and Team 10®—and choose the one that best fits your training goals, group size, and workshop format.

The Discovering Styles Thumball takes players through an activity that explores their work and management styles. It's a creative way to get to know each other a bit better. Thumballs look like soccer balls but are soft and safe for indoor use at work, school, and home. Catch the ball, look under your thumb, and share your reaction to the prompt.

ADAPTABLE FOR YOUR FAVORITE STYLE ASSESSMENT

With so many personality-type tools out there (DiSC, DISC, Meyers Briggs, Real Colors, True Colors, What’s your Style, etc.), this tool focuses on personality characteristics in general. It can be used with any of these common frameworks, to deepen learning while having some fun. Help players understand different styles, grow familiar with new terminology, practice categorizing qualities and characteristics as personality types, and consider how to draw out the benefits of each.

In fact, the ball was made silver and white so that it can align with ANY COLOR-TYPE FRAMEWORK!

EXPLORE A RANGE OF QUALITIES

You'll find personality qualities that correlate with a variety of "types"

• DECISIVE, COMPETITIVE, PERSISTENT, ASSERTIVE, GOAL-ORIENTED, EXTRAVERTED
• CHARISMATIC, OPTIMISTIC, PURSUASIVE, AFFABLE, INVENTIVE, TALKATIVE
• RELIABLE, STEADY, EMPATHETIC, COOPERATIVE, FRIENDLY, INTROVERTED
• DATA-DRIVEN, ANALYTICAL, FUTURISTIC, ORGANIZED, OBJECTIVE, THOROUGH
• CREATIVE, RESILIENT, SWIFT, VISIONARY, JUGGLER

FACILITATION SUGGESTIONS

Download a slide deck from our recent Show and Share event for more facilitation notes

Set up the experience by explaining that “similarity bias” is an unconscious bias that causes us to show preference for people who are like us. However, teams with a broad spectrum of perspectives and characteristics have been shown to outperform more homogeneous groups. By using the Profiles and Styles Thumball, you hope to expand the group’s understanding of different personality characteristics and types. Together you’ll explore how individuals with different qualities can intersect, balance each other, and improve team performance.

GAME 1: FOCUS ON ONE SINGLE QUESTION

Choose one question for players to answer when they catch the ball and look at the quality under their thumb. For instance, you might have them answer:

• How could you use this quality in a positive way?
• How can you support or encourage this quality?
• How can you best work with someone with this quality?
• Why is this quality important to our organization?
• Which of our personality type(s)/styles encompasses this quality?
• In what situations might this quality/characteristic be most effective?
• What happens if this quality is exaggerated…
• How might someone with this quality manage conflict?

GAME 2: ROUND ROBIN

In each round of play, answer a different question regarding the qualities on the Thumball. i.e.

• Round 1: “Catch the ball, look under your thumb, read the prompt aloud and answer: How could this quality be used in a positive way?”
• Round 2: “Catch the ball, look under your thumb, read the prompt aloud and answer: What happens if this quality is exaggerated…”

GAME 3: TEAM PLAY

Line up 2 teams opposite each other. The receiving team will catch the ball, read the QUALITY (the word in all caps) and quiz the other team on any one of these:

• A description or example of what that quality might look like at work.
• With which style “type(s)” might the quality be associated (i.e. “dominant”; “intuitive”; “spirited,” etc.) NOTE: the “type” should correspond with the specific assessment tool the facilitator has introduced.
• A colleague/teammate or famous person who is strong in this style

GAME 4: STYLE PAIRS

Look under both thumbs and consider how those two qualities might interact. Answer:

1. How might those characteristics balance or complement each other?
2. What challenges might arise when these two qualities merge?

FACILITATOR SUGGESTIONS

Our customer, CPTD-certified Kimberly Robinson, shared these facilitation notes:

For the first activity, I gave these instructions: 

• • Person #1 (Person holding the ball): Looks at where their thumb is placed. Shares the quality and description on the ball.
  • Person #2 (to the right): Gives an example of what that quality might look like at work.
  • Person #3 (next person): Identifies with which style type this quality might be associated (Drive, Influence, Support, Clarity).
  • Person #4 (final person): Identifies a colleague/teammate (or famous person) who is strong in this style.
  • Bonus: If someone else is strong in this style, speak up, so others know about another one of your gifts!

For the Style Pairs activity, after each person caught the ball and shared the qualities, the answered both questions: 

• • How might those characteristics balance or complement each other?
  • What challenges might arise when these two qualities merge?

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

This ball is part of our exclusive Silver Series Thumballs.

MORE RESOURCES

• All about Silver Series Thumballs
• Tips & Suggestion on Facilitating Thumball Experiences
• How Deep to Discuss
• 7 Tips to formulate great questions
• More tools for great conversations
• Discover Your Thumball Style
• How Deep to Discuss Infographic

The Power of Perception Leadership Activities take participants on a journey of walking in others' shoes and seeing the world from new perspectives. As the group works out challenges, wearing different-colored glasses, they quickly understand the reality of others not seeing the world through the same lenses they do... literally.

Using John Riordan's workbook and course, facilitators can help teams, leaders, and managers recognize, understand, and adjust their own perceptions and others'.

FACILITATION KIT INCLUDES…

The game includes all you need for 3 to 18 players.

• 3 Facilitation/Participant workbooks
• 6 Red Glasses
• 6 Blue Glasses
• 6 Yellow Glasses

EXTRA SET OF GLASSES INCLUDES…

• 1 set (3 pairs) of glasses  -- (one of each color: red, blue, yellow)

POWER OF PERCEPTION LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIES

In the workbook, find a complete course on the power of perceptions, including:

• Introduction – explaining Chris Argyris’ Ladder of Inference, exploring how the information on which we focus becomes the filter through which we lend meaning, make assumptions, and draw conclusions.
• Introductory Activity – in a series of two warm-up exercises, players must add up a series of numbers and agree on the sum of those numbers. Wearing the glasses, they will arrive at different totals, and there the negotiations (and learning) begin.
• People Perceptions Activity – In a second activity, participants are asked to evaluate potential new teammates based on a set of criteria. When asked which candidate they’re drawn to, players will realize that they’ve come to different conclusions depending on the information that’s most apparent to them. Debriefs can focus on self-perceptions, cultural norms, past experience, stereotypes, affinity bias, and more.
• Emotional Intelligence Activity – the third activity asks participants to consider a person’s feelings. Again, perceptions of the situation are colored by the glasses they’re wearing. Beyond building emotion-related vocabularies, debriefs can explore projection bias, attribution bias, cultural context, assumptions, mood congruence, and more.
• Decision-Making Activity – In the fourth and final activity, participants must agree on a sum of numbers so that they can make a joint decision. The activity explores the need to:
  • Begin with dialogue, not debate
  • Strive first for understanding, not the quickest answer
  • Differentiate constructive and destructive language when
  • Negotiating decisions when everyone isn’t in agreement
• Debrief – a series of wrap-up questions, engage the group to discuss:
  • Topics on which team members currently have different opinions or perspectives
  • Ways you can manage different perspectives going forward.

DEMO

FROM THE DEVELOPER, JOHN RIORDAN