Gamification

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.

Me First!® v.3 Wireless Game Buzzer System – 4-User Set brings quiz-show excitement to small groups, breakout rooms, and training sessions. With this game show-style training tool, each participant gets a Personal Answer Dome (P.A.D.); when someone buzzes first, their P.A.D. flashes GREEN and all others turn RED, so you instantly see who gets to answer first. The facilitator control unit adds flexibility with CONTINUE and RESET options to manage rounds of play.

Give everyone a chance to answer your toughest questions with a Me First Personal Answer Dome (P.A.D.) at every seat. The wireless classroom buzzer system lets participants 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. These wireless light-up P.A.D.s will bring light, laughter, and learning to any workshop!

KEY FEATURES

• 4-player set: includes 4 wireless P.A.D.s + 1 facilitator control unit (with USB port)
• Instant lockout: system identifies first buzz within .001 seconds and locks out others
• Player lights: first player’s P.A.D. turns GREEN; others RED
• Facilitator control: choose CONTINUE (block previous responders) or RESET (all can buzz again)
• RIGHT/WRONG sounds: facilitator can mark answers as correct or incorrect with audio and light feedback
• Wireless range: approx. 80 ft
• Portable & lightweight: under 4 lbs, battery-powered with snap-in door
• Expandable: add more P.A.D.s (up to 36 players)

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• 4 wireless player P.A.D.s (approx. 3" diameter)
• 1 facilitator control unit (with USB port)
• Batteries (included)
• Quick-start instructions

Note: Me First!® v.3 is not compatible with earlier versions.

COMMON USES

• Small-group training games & workshops
• Classroom quiz competitions
• Meeting energizers & icebreakers
• Breakout sessions during larger events

FAQS

Q: How many people can this set handle?
A: This version includes 4-player buzzers, but they're large enough that a team of players can each access the P.A.D. Facilitators can expand the system by adding more P.A.D.s (up to 36 players total).

Q: Can the facilitator see who rang in first?
A: While the facilitator's P.A.D. will show that someone has rung in, it doesn't identify who. They must look at the player pads to see which has the green light, or the player can identify themselves. All other buzzers will have a red light.

Q: How does the facilitator control the game?
A: The facilitator's remote has several buttons. To control the game, there are two options: The facilitator can press CONTINUE (blocks previous winners from buzzing in again until everyone has had a turn) or RESET (all can buzz again immediately). They can also adjust the sound level. Finally, a short press of the right/wrong buttons will play a correct (bing-bing) or incorrect (bzzzzz) sound; a long press of those buttons will trigger the system to indicate which player has had the most correct or incorrect answers.

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

Q: Can I connect this to software?
A: Yes. The facilitator unit includes a USB port to integrate with compatible game-show software.

Transform ordinary learning activities into extraordinary game shows with our buzzer games for the classroom. With this dynamic participation tool, the Me First wireless buzzers involve EVERY player. Participants will love competing to answer questions and win points. Unleash your group’s energy and add a “game show spirit” with the game show buzzer for classrooms!

NOTE: THIS V3 VERSION OF ME FIRST IS NOT COMPATIBLE WITH PREVIOUS VERSIONS OF THE GAME.

MAKE GAMES EASY TO FACILITATE & FUN TO PLAY!

1. ASK 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 participant 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. Me First wireless buzzers track this data for the entirety of the game, making buzzer games for the classroom insanely fun.
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. Facilitators can keep pressing CONTINUE after subsequent questions until all players have had a chance to answer.

At any time, facilitators can press RESET to turn all Participant P.A.D.s back to YELLOW and enable everyone to buzz-in. Transform Jeopardy-like game shows and other fast-paced learning games into exciting, memorable events, with a Me First! buzzer game for the classroom.

CLASSROOM BUZZER GAME FEATURES

1. See who buzzed in first within .001 seconds.
2. 80-foot range.
3. Right and Wrong buzzer sounds on the facilitator remote.
4. 2.4 GHz wireless frequency.
5. Block previous responders or invite all to buzz-in.
6. Play multiple buzzer games for the classroom concurrently, without interference.
7. Track which player had the most correct or incorrect responses.
8. Flashing lights indicate if the player answered right or wrong.
9. Push and hold the RIGHT button to see who has the most correct answers.
10. Push and hold the WRONG button to see who has the most incorrect answers.
11. USB port enables integration with game show software.
12. On-Off switch for battery preservation.
13. Snap-in battery door for easy battery replacement

Click here for complete easy to use operating instructions for the Me First Wireless Buzzers.

CUSTOMIZE YOUR GAME PLAY

• Expand your buzzer game for the classroom to as many as 36 users! Additional P.A.D.s are sold separately. Additional Player P.A.D.s (GAMFBP) sold individually.
• Add an extra Facilitator Remote and run two games at once.
• Consider the 12-user Me First buzzer set for larger groups.
• Bulk quantity discounts are available.

SEE HOW ME FIRST! GAME BUZZERS WORK!

The 4-player set works just the same as ther 12-player set!

MORE 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

(lPLACE YOUR ORDER TODAY

Once you try these game show buzzers for classroom learning, you’ll understand how truly powerful they can be! As the facilitator, you’ll have loads of fun playing the role of game show host. All products are backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee, so order innovative game buzzers with full confidence. Build engagement with Me First wireless buzzers, available now at Trainers Warehouse!OPARDY!)

WHY FACILITATORS LOVE IT

• Unlimited flexibility: Build your own prompts for leadership training, icebreakers, coaching sessions, wellness checks, or just-for-fun games.
• Interactive engagement: Toss the ball, answer the question under your thumb, and keep the group energized and involved.
• Reusable and durable: Soft, stitched 6″ fabric ball designed to last through countless training sessions.
• Personalized learning: Helps trainers align activities directly to their content, participants, or organizational culture.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• One 6″ Thumball® with 32 blank panels
• Permanent marker included for writing prompts

BEST USES

• Corporate training workshops
• Team building and icebreakers
• Leadership coaching and mentoring
• Classroom learning and student engagement
• Wellness, DEI, or custom content programs

FAQS

Q: Can I erase and reuse the panels?
A: No. While this is a customizable team building ball, the panels are not erasable. This design prevents smudging during play and ensures the prompts stay visible long-term.

Q: What kind of marker should I use?
A: To create your personalized conversation starter, be sure to use a fine-tip permanent marker works best. The ball ships with one marker included. Avoid washable or erasable markers as they will smear.

Q: Any tips for writing on the panels?
A: Yes! Use a fine-point permanent marker and take your time to write clearly. Practicing your prompts on paper first is a good way to ensure legibility and fit.

Q: What makes this different from other Thumballs®?
A: Unlike pre-printed Thumballs®, this DIY version gives facilitators total creative freedom to tailor questions and activities to their specific training content and audience.

Q: Who uses Create Your Own Thumball® most?
A: Trainers, teachers, facilitators, HR professionals, coaches, and team leaders who want a versatile tool for engagement and customized learning.

Image above shows suggested use only. You'll get a ball with 30 BLANK panels!

** TIPS **

How to customize your Thumball™

1. Use a permanent, fine-tip marker so it's easy to write and doesn't smudge.
2. Plan before your write! You have 30 panels to fill up (10 blue; 20 silver). The two pre-printed panels on the top and bottom say “You Choose,” allowing players to respond to any panel on the ball.
   
3. Practice your writing! Be sure your handwriting is big, bold and legible.
   
4. Fill all the spaces! Write in vocabulary words, questions, key words, and more. If you still have empty spaces, consider one or more of these ideas:
   

• • Repeat a prompt twice. Repetition can be good (if you put the same words on two panels – simply let players know that they need to build upon a previous answer).
  • “Pass to the right” – player passes the ball to the person directly to the right.
  • “Stump the Leader” – player chooses which panel the facilitator must answer.
  • “Toss Again” – player tosses ball up and re-catches it.
  • “Share 5” or “Group Share”– player gets topic from facilitator and 5 or more players must all offer answers.

Facilitation Suggestions

• Depending on your group, roll, pass, toss, or kick Thumball™ among players.
• Circulate the ball clockwise, counterclockwise or random direction.
• Specify which thumb to look under for the prompt -- right thumb, left thumb or the finger of your choice.
• Ask players to respond to the prompt. Or, to kick it up a notch, invite them to ask another player to respond.
• Select time limits for responses and length of game.
• Add point values to each prompt/question and let players know that will earn and/or lose points for each response.

NOTE: 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

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!

Signal that "play" is an essential part of "learn"

The ultimate stress reliever and fun achiever! Trainers love to use Koosh for icebreakers, reinforcement games, and they also make great fidget toys. You can never have too many Koosh balls. The rubbery strands feel good and are easy to catch!

Standard (Medium) Koosh balls are the size of an orange. 3"

This item comes in assorted colors and is packaged randomly. Actual color received may vary from what is shown.

NOTE: KOOSH is no longer a registered trademark and is no longer made by a single manufacturer. Trainers Warehouse has located a new manufacturer that we feel makes a high quality product, most similar to the Original Koosh Balls. You will not find a Koosh-branded label on the product you receive.

Click here to view FREE Facilitation Notes on Using Balls in Training!

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

WHY IT WORKS

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

GETTING TO KNOW YOU THUMBALL PROMPTS

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

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

Sample prompts include:

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

HOW TO USE

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

DIFFERENCE FROM OTHER THUMBALLS

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

SPECIFICATIONS

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

FAQS

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

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

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

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

SEE IT IN ACTION

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

** TIPS * Facilitation Suggestions **

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GET HAPPY AT WORK THUMBALL PROMPTS

The 32 prompts on this Thumball explore...

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

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

** TIPS & FACILITATION SUGGESTIONS **

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

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

MORE RESOURCES

• Tips & Suggestions 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

SESSION OPENER THUMBALL PROMPTS

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

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

This Thumball is part of Trainers Warehouse's 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

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

Host your game show with panache! These buzzers have new and improved graphics and electronics.

With the push of a button, let teams know if their answer is right or wrong. The green buttons sounds a "BING BING." Press the red button for a loud "BZZZ!"

The perfect accompaniment for Q&A sessions, these buttons are fun, easy, and loud enough to hear from the back of the classroom! Measures 3.5" diam.; 2 AAA batteries included in each. Convenient on/off switch on bottom of each unit.

View Video demo, below! [note: button graphics have been updated since the video was made]

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

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

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

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



TEAM DYNAMICS THUMBALL PROMPTS

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

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

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

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

** TIPS **

FACILITATION Suggestions

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

FACILITATION TIP 1: SET EXPECTATIONS AND EXPLAIN CLEARLY

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

Tailor your Thumball game to meet your needs:

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

FACILITATION TIP 2: SET GROUND RULES

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

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

FACILITATION TIP 3: BE PREPARED IF CONVERSATIONS GET STICKY

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

MORE RESOURCES

• Tips & Suggestions 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

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

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

STRESS MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION STARTER THUMBALL

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

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

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

** TIPS & Facilitation Suggestions **

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

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

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

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

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
• Ground Rules Signs
• Tips for facilitating difficult situations

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

The Common Ground Thumball looks like a cool soccer ball and has 32 panels pre-printed with fun icebreaker phrases suited for adults and teens. Use it to stimulate conversation, promote team spirit, and boost flagging energy.

As you try to generate conversation and build new friendships and relationships, a key challenge is finding “common ground” experiences and interests that you share with others. This Thumball helps to uncover these commonalities.

COMMON GROUND THUMBALL PROMPTS

Prompts will help players to delve into new topics that draw out commonalities and shared experiences, for instance:

• Time: Ways to spend free time, weekends, vacations, etc.
• Favorites: Favorite foods, activities, apps, show, books
• People: Family and friends who impact your life
• Growth: Goals, talents, or skills you'd like to develop
• Moolah: What you'd spend money on
• You: claims to fame and more...

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

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

MORE RESOURCES

• Tips & Suggestions 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

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

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

SHAPED BY OUR PAST THUMBALL PROMPTS

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

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

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

This ball is part of Trainers Warehouse's 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

What are your Favorites? And Why? When asking about favorites, we always preface it by asking for "one of your favorites" because sometimes it's really hard to choose!

What we like says a lot about us. The Favorites Thumball provides 32 discussion prompts, specially selected to help your groups explore one another`s favorite people, places, things, experiences, preferences, and more. Talking about favorites is a delightful way to get conversations going and build relationships.

FAVORITES THUMBALL PROMPTS

Although this Thumball refers to "favorites," we always recommend asking for "one of your favorites." Somehow, that seems to make it all a bit easier to answer the question. On this Thumball, which is one of our favorites, you'll find a range of topics including:

• Locations and destinations
• Ways to spend time
• Cuisines
• Art forms
• Preferences

Because every prompt is about YOU, a topic that most people can answer pretty easily, dialogue and sharing come quickly and easily.

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

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

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

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

Look under your thumb and share!

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

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

BE A LEADER THUMBALL PROMPTS

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

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

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

FACILITATION SUGGESTIONS

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

Be flexible

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

Options

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

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

MORE RESOURCES

• Tips & Suggestions 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

Put an end to procrastination with these clever wooden nickels, best known as TUITs. You might not even know what a TUIT is until you actually receive "a round TUIT." And when you do, it will be the perfect reminder not to put off imporant tasks.

There's surely no better way to say "Don't procrastinate! Do it NOW" than with a round "TUIT" token.

FEATURES

• TUITs are packed in sets of 24
• Hand-polished wooden nickels measure 1.5" diameter
• TUITs are laser engraved and environmentally friendly!
• Front side: TUIT
• Back side: DO IT! Don't Wait 'Til You Get "A Round TUIT"...

USING TUITs?

• With each passing day, students forget a little bit of what they learned. TUITs offer a gentle reminder to try techniques right away.
• Introduce TUITs at the end of a learning event and ask, "What might prevent you from getting around to applying your new skills?"
• Have each participant identify an action item, a "to do," or an "IT," which they pledge not to put off.

ABOUT TRAINERS WAREHOUSE

Trainers Warehouse offers tons of tools to make learning effective, fun, and memorable. Try our our range of Debrief and Review Tools, so that time spent in training doesn't go to waste.

Every product we sell comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you aren't satisfied with your order, neither are we!

What Makes You Unique?

What? What? What? Asking and answering questions helps build rapport, camaraderie, and understanding. Sharing information builds relationships and fosters trust. The What Makes You YOU? Thumball is loaded with 32 "what?" questions to help players learn more about the people around them and dig a little deeper than typical, superficial icebreakers questions.

Thumballs look like soccer balls but are are soft and safe for indoor use at work, school, and home.

WHAT MAKES YOU YOU THUMBALL PROMPTS

Through this thoughtful array of "What...?" conversation prompts, learn what makes each person special. Prompts cover:

• Skills and interests
• Quirks, wishes and facts
• Motivations & fears
• Likes & dislikes
• Goals and contributions

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

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

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

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

Look under your thumb and share!

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

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

BUILDING TRUST THUMBALL PROMPTS

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

Discuss...

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

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

** TIPS & Facilitation Suggestions **

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

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

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

Options:

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

©Trainers Warehouse 2023 – 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

Use the Which are You and Why? Thumball prompts to understand where each person is on a variety of spectrums. It's a creative and playful way to get to know each other.

Just look under your thumb and share your reaction to the prompt. Discuss where on the spectrum you'd put yourself, and why! Thumball is a 6" stuffed ball that looks like a soccer ball, but is soft and safe to use at work, school and home.

WHICH ARE YOU AND WHY? THUMBALL PROMPTS

On this Thumball, you'll find two words on each panel. They represent opposites. The goal is to understand if you're "this" or "that" or if you're preference lies somewhere in the middle.

Use the ball to learn more about friends and colleagues. Topics are broad enough that players can apply them to:

• Work
• Home
• Communication styles
• Foods
• Activities
• Relationships
• Purchases
• Leadership
• Teams

When you're playing feel free to frame any prompt to your specific location, situation or objective.

** TIPS & Facilitation Suggestions **

EXPLAIN: The Which Are You Thumball requires players to chose between two opposite characteristics or preferences. They may find it's easy to choose one extreme or the other. If it is, or if it's not, encourage them to explain where they fall on the continuum and why. Invite them to share examples or expand on their answer with analogies to their personality or work style.

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

1. Specify that answers should relate specifically to personal or workplace experiences.
2. Ask first recipient to select an answer panel to which all players must respond or contribute.
3. Survey players on several question panels, then create charts or graphs that reflect the cumulative responses.

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

This 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

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

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

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

TOOLBOX TALKS (SAFETY) THUMBALL PROMPTS

Prompts explore a variety of workplace safety topics:

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

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

** TIPS **

FACILITATION SUGGESTIONS

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

Options:

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

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

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

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

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

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

MORE RESOURCES

• Tips & Suggestions 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 Get Movin' Thumball is designed to give groups the energy breaks they need after sitting still for a while. It's perfect to get the blood flowing, re-energize, and re-focus during meetings and training events! The Thumball provides 32 prompts to get mobile – stretching, dancing, balancing and moving about in playful ways.

ENERGY BREAK THUMBALL PROMPTS

Prompts include a variety of stretches, yoga poses, playful movements, breathing exercises, toe taps, dances, and more. In developing the prompts, we are careful not to including movements that would be uncomfortable or embarrassing for kids or adults. As with any exercise, be sure to give your participants an out, or choose a different prompt if desired. Encourage everyone do do the motion at once.

** TIPS & FACILITATION SUGGESTIONS **

• Explain the goal: Moving around is an excellent way to stimulate and reinvigorate the brain, as it gets the blood flowing and spreading nutrients throughout the body. In a spirit of transparency, explain these benefits to your group so they understand the goal is to get moving.
• Invite modifications: Welcome your group to make any alterations to the suggested movements in order to accommodate physical limitations, protect themselves from injury, or even save themselves from embarrassment. Invite them to participate “if they are able.”
• Go for balance: remind your group to treat both sides equally, repeating movements on their right and left sides.
• Start playing: Movement can be beneficial at any time during a learning event or meeting, such as:
  • Energize the group after lunch -- Toss the ball to a recipient and have them read the prompt and demonstrate the movement to the whole group. Encourage all who can to join in for 1 to 3 minutes.
  • Learning review – Pick a movement and relate it to something the group has just learned. Alternatively, toss the ball and have the recipient perform the movement while they think up their answer to a review question.
  • Break the ice – Have the ball recipient do the movement described the panel, then have others in the group share a moment that the movement reminds them of.

©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

Stop procrastinating! "TUITs" are a great reminder not to wait until you get "around to it" or "a round TUIT."

There's surely no better way to say "Don't procrastinate! Do it NOW" than with these sleek wooden tokens that say "TUIT" on one side, and "Don't Wait" on the other.

FEATURES

• TUITs are packed in sets of 24
• Coated wooden nickels measure 1.5" diameter
• Front side: TUIT
• Back side: DO IT! Don't Wait 'Til You Get "A Round TUIT"...

USING TUITs?

• With each passing day, students forget a little bit of what they learned. TUITs offer a gentle reminder to try techniques right away.
• Introduce TUITs at the end of a learning event and ask, "What might prevent you from getting around to applying your new skills?"
• Have each participant identify an action item, a "to do," or an "IT," which they pledge not to put off.

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Break the ice, disrupt the silence, and get people talking. Simply toss the ball, look under your thumb, and share your response to the prompt you land on. Thumball® is a soft, 6" stuffed ball designed to spark easy, low-pressure conversation—no prep required.

The Icebreaker Thumball® features a cool soccer-ball design with 32 pre-printed, lighthearted prompts created for adults and teens, including: Best Place to Live, Worst Job Ever, People That Make You Laugh, Fantasy Vacation, Best Concert, TV Shows to Love or Hate, and more. (See the full list of prompts below.)

Use Icebreaker Thumball® to warm up groups, ease awkward starts, build comfort, and boost flagging energy. It’s perfect for kicking off meetings, training sessions, orientations, team lunches, and social gatherings—especially when you want connection and laughter before diving into deeper, work-focused conversations.

FAQs

Q: How is the Icebreaker Thumball® different from other Thumballs?
A: Icebreaker Thumball® was the original Thumball—the first one created before themed, work-focused sets existed. It’s designed for light, playful conversation rather than deep reflection or skill-building.

Q: When should I use the Icebreaker Thumball®?
A: Use it at the start of a session, after breaks, or anytime energy is low and people need a quick, friendly way to start talking.

Q: Is this appropriate for professional or corporate settings?
A: Yes. The prompts are lighthearted and social, making this best for warm-ups, introductions, and informal connection before transitioning into more work-focused activities.

Q: How many people can play at once?
A: It works well with groups of 4–25. For larger groups, split into smaller circles or use multiple Thumballs.

Q: What kind of conversations does it spark?
A: Fun, low-stakes conversations that help people relax, laugh, and feel more comfortable participating.

Q: Can I combine it with more serious Thumball® sets?
A: Absolutely. Many facilitators start with Icebreaker Thumball® to warm up the room, then switch to EQ, Leadership, or Team Dynamics Thumballs for deeper discussion.

Q: Who typically uses this set?
A: Trainers, facilitators, teachers, HR teams, event hosts, and team leaders who want a fast, friendly way to break the silence and build comfort in groups.

Icebreaker Thumball prompts

1. Magazine I read
2. Season I enjoy most
3. Something I wear again and again
4. Mountains I want to climb
5. Ideal car
6. Places I've been swimming
7. People I admire
8. Foods I can cook
9. Worst job ever
10. Fantastic fruits
11. Fun card game
12. Farthest place I've traveled
13. Beautiful beach I want to see
14. Animated film I'd view again
15. Chinese food I always order
16. Favorite candy treats
17. Favorite nursery rhyme or fairy tale
18. Museum I'd visit
19. TV channels I like
20. What makes me laugh
21. Olympic events I watch
22. Concert or play I want tickets for
23. Best Italian foods
24. Finest Fast food
25. Sports championship I watch
26. Two cookies I enjoy
27. Something I like about my hometown
28. A wedding I remember
29. Music my parents like
30. Board game I would pick

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