Tools for L&D

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

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

Energize your group with your very own Pipeline Game. Give each participant one short length of half pipe and challenge the group to deliver a ball down the pipes from the starting point to the finish line. A successful pipeline team building activity requires participating groups to exercise excellent communication, creativity and teamwork.

TRANSFORM GROUPS INTO WELL-FUNCTIONING TEAMS WITH A PIPELINE CHALLENGE

• Energize a group
• Build communication skills
• Practice group problem solving
• Practice goal setting

Pipeline Game -- also known as Pipeline Challenge or Gutter Ball - is effective with kids, teenagers and adults, and can be played indoors or out. Choose this activity when you need to energize the group into a team, or to emphasize the importance of each member's actions in a team.

FEATURES

• 12 high-quality, sturdy 15.25" half-pipes; Each pipe has an inside diameter of 2-1/2 inches
• 3 balls (marble, ball bearing, golf ball)
• Handy nylon storage bag
• Facilitation notes on how to play and process the exercise

DEBRIEFING SUGGESTIONS

As with most team building games, the Pipeline Game will be most effective if you take the time fully debrief the experience. Start with questions that specifically address the dynamics that played out during the game. Understand what happened and how the experience made each player feel. After that, shift your questions and conversation to the real-world learning that can be applied from the game. Consider handful of questions to debrief the pipeline team building activity, such as:

• How well did the group cope with this challenge?
• What, if any, goals did your group set? How? Did you succeed?
• What skills did it take to be successful as a group?
• What creative solutions were suggested and how were they received
• How can you compare this challenge to other situations (e.g., at school, home or work)?

Group Size: 8 to 12 ideal, but can be done with 6 to 14

Time: ~15-60 mins

FAQs for Pipeline Game (Pipeline Challenge / Gutter Ball)

Q: What do participants do in the Pipeline Game?
A: Each person holds a short half-pipe and the group works together to roll a ball from a start point to a finish line—without dropping it—by coordinating movement, spacing, and handoffs.

Q: What’s the ideal group size?
A: Ideal for 8–12 participants, but it can work well with 6–14 depending on space and how challenging you make the course.

Q: How long does it take to run?
A: Plan for 15–60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the challenge and how much time you spend debriefing.

Q: What skills does this activity build?
A: Communication, teamwork, creativity, problem solving, and goal setting—plus the big takeaway that every person’s actions affect the whole team’s success.

Q: What’s included in the kit?
A: 12 sturdy 15.25" half-pipes (inside diameter 2.5"), 3 balls (marble, ball bearing, and golf ball), a nylon storage bag, and facilitation notes with instructions and debrief suggestions.

Q: Can it be played indoors or outdoors?
A: Yes. It works well indoors or outdoors—just adjust the course and spacing for the environment.

Q: How should I debrief the exercise?
A: Start with what happened (team dynamics, emotions, communication), then connect it to real work/school life. Helpful prompts include goals set, coping strategies, skills used, creative ideas tried, and parallels to real situations.

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

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.

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

5 SKILLS OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

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

1. Self-Awareness [SA]
2. Motivation [MO]
3. Self-Regulation [SR]
4. Empathy [EM]
5. Social Skills [SS]

EQ THUMBALL PROMPTS

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

For example:

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

30 prompts are listed on the Thumball, specifically:

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

FROM A DELIGHTED TRAINER, WINSOME CULLEY

MULTIPLE WAYS TO FACILITATE THE GAME

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

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

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

MORE CONVERSATION STARTERS BY TRAINERS WAREHOUSE

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

Create good vibes! Don't wait for momentous events to give positive feedback. Get peace of mind -- you'll never miss a chance to say Thanks! Good Job! whenever the occasion arises.

Set up your own Appreciation Station, so that managers, team leaders, trainers and teachers can easily dash off a note of recognition and appreciation.

5 THEMES ENSURE YOU HAVE THE MESSAGE YOU NEED, WHEN YOU NEED IT!

Buy an assortment of all 5 styles -- you'll get 8 pads in each style.

• Kudos for Work (Orange) Use these clever notes liberally to boost learners' and colleagues' spirits, recognize large or small contributions, and inspire continued effort.
• Kudos for Colleagues (Blue) When groups are learning and growing together, they have a keen appreciation for where each team member started, and what they've accomplished. These pads give team members a tool to recognize one another's contributions to the group.
• KUDOS for Growth and Learning (Green) Support a "Growth Mindset" by giving KUDOS when people take a risk, stick with a problem, make great contributions, show improvement, take the time to do things right, and more. KUDOS Green notes are perfect for long-term projects, processes, and learning. They'll help you recognize the effort your group is making and encourage recipients to keep up their good work.
• Kudos for Values (Red) Let your teammates or employees know when they are exemplifying your organizational values and mission. Use these clever notes liberally to "Walk the Talk" with employees and colleagues. Recognition for matching or exceeding corporate values and goals will lift their spirits and inspire continued effort.
• Kudos for Teams (Gold) Lets teammates share positive thoughts with one another. If you're not on location, at the same time, leave a friendly handwritten note.

Kudos Note Pads -- Set of 40 Pads (25 sheets/pad; Each pad is approx. 4" x 5.5".)

MORE WAYS TO USE KUDOS NOTES!

Kudos notes don't only need to be written by teachers or trainers. Trainer Nora Gerber was kind enough to share her facilitation notes with us, explaining how to use them as "task cards," whereby participants can:

• Learn about positive behaviors
• Self-assess their own strengths
• Look for opportunities to grow

5 TIPS FOR USING KUDOS NOTES, INCLUDING TO TEACH EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE (EQ)

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

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

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

Plan your training for maximum impact!

Transform the way you teach, train, and facilitate learning with Angela Agresto's Brain Building Blueprints Flip Book—a dynamic, easy-to-use course development tool that simplifies lesson planning while ensuring engagement, interactivity, and retention. Whether you're a corporate trainer, classroom teacher, instructor, facilitator, or coach, this innovative flip book provides a brain-friendly approach to designing impactful learning experiences in just minutes.

Built around the 4Cs Brain-Based Instructional Design Model (inspired by master trainer Sharon Bowman), this flip book gives you instant access to ready-to-use learning activities that work for any subject, skill level, or learning environment—live or virtual.

4Cs BRAIN-BASED INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN MODEL

The 4Cs Model is a brain-based approach that enhances learning by following the natural way the brain processes and retains information -- by incorporating movement, talking, images, writing, breaks, and more. This flip book organizes activities according to these four stages, helping you effortlessly design effective training sessions.

C1 – CONNECTIONS

Before introducing new content, help learners connect to each other, to the instructor, and to their prior knowledge on the topic. This step is critical because activating prior knowledge makes learning more meaningful and increases retention.

C2 – CONCEPTS

Introduce new concepts and material through multi-sensory, interactive activities. Be sure to keep instruction short, engaging, and varied, use visuals, storytelling, movement, or hands-on experiences, and make learning fun and memorable. After all, the brain learns best when information is experienced in multiple ways.

C3 – CONCRETE PRACTICE

Reinforce new knowledge by allowing learners to practice using their new skills. Structure activities that allow learners to engage in review activities, teach others what they've learned, and applying the learning to new situations. By using new knowledge, brain connections and retention become stronger.

C4 – CONCLUSIONS

Wrap up learning with reflection and application activities. Include activities through which learners can summarize key takeaways, evaluate and celebrate learning, and develop action plans for real-world application. Each of these will help solidify learning and make it stick in the long-term.

HOW TO USE THE FLIP BOOK

Using Brain Building Blueprints is as simple as flipping through the pages!

• Step 1: Identify which 4Cs stage you need an activity for—Connections, Concepts, Concrete Practice, or Conclusions.
• Step 2: Flip through the corresponding section and choose an activity that fits your learners and setting.
• Step 3: Follow the step-by-step instructions, complete with timing estimates and material lists (if needed).
• Step 4: Implement the activity and watch your learners engage, interact, and retain more effectively!

EASY-TO-FACILITATE BRAIN BASED LEARNING ACTIVITIES

Every activity is designed to align with how the brain learns best. For each activity described in the flip book, you'll find:

The 4Cs Model is brain-based, meaning it enhances retention, engagement, and application of knowledge. Whether you're leading a workshop, running a classroom, or facilitating training, this flip book ensures you deliver memorable and effective learning experiences—with ease!

Take the stress out of lesson planning and create powerful, brain-friendly learning experiences with Brain Building Blueprints!

MORE BRAIN-BUILDING BLUEPRINT TOOLS!

Use the Brain-Building Blueprint Deck to easily access your brain-building activities during your session. (#RDBBBC)

The Brain Building Blueprint Facilitator Kit allows trainers to design and deliver exceptional brain-friendly learning. (#RDBBBF)

WATCH THE DEMO

In LEGO® Activities for Training, you’ll find each activity contains easy step-by-step instructions to set up and debrief the exercise, as well as time and materials needed. Plus, find tips to integrate the game activity into a larger training session!

These activities are suitable for experienced or novice Trainers, Facilitators, Educators, and Coaches. Those who consider themselves novices should expect to take extra minutes to think through their needs and be very clear on the PURPOSE and CONTEXT of the session.

21 ADAPTABLE EXERCISES

Each activity is designed to start conversations. For maximum effectiveness, you may need to make some adjustments to the instructions or timing. Use these notes as a guide but feel free to make changes to suit the needs of your team or conduct deeper discussions. NOTE: copy written in red italics indicates words you will speak.

LEGO® ACTIVITIES FOR TRAINING INCLUDES

The deck includes:

• FAQs
• LEGO brick suggestions
• Icebreakers and Introductions - 7 activities
• Communication Skills - 7 activities
• Team Dynamics - 7 activities

COLLECTING THE RIGHT LEGO BRICKS

The deck DOES NOT INCLUDE Lego building materials. However, LEGO bricks are readily available new (at toy stores) and used (ebay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, etc.) While you can use any LEGO bricks for these activities, you may want to consider the following:

• LEGO® Explorer Bags & LEGO® Serious Play Starter Kits: These sets work well if you want everyone in the team to have the same selection of bricks. They’re also ideal in exercises requiring players to duplicate another team’s model.
• More isn’t always better: A smaller selection of bricks can be helpful with storytelling and metaphors.
• Base plates: Extra base plates help when asking people to create a scene or move about the room to share their creations with others.
• Mini-figures and Special bricks: Pieces such as eyes, flags, and wheels etc., help create a variety of scenes. Mini Figures are useful for expressing interactions between people.
• Keepers: Allowing learners to keep their LEGO® model can help with memory and retention, as well as spreading the word about your LEGO®-based training.

7 ICEBREAKER ACTIVITIES

1. My Accessories (10 mins + 2 mins PL sharing) - Introductions and assessing knowledge.
2. Build a Creature (10 mins + 2 mins PL sharing) - Introductions and making links to personality.
3. My Monday Morning (10 mins + 2 mins PL sharing) - Creative introductions that link to roles.
4. Five Piece Speed Build (6 mins + 1 min PL sharing) - Quick introductions that can link to efficiency and time management.
5. Build a Tower (10 mins + 2 mins PL sharing) - Introductions that use a tower as a metaphor for experience (or anything else).
6. Surprise Surprise! (8 mins + 2 min PL sharing) - Make deeper connections through sharing.
7. My Journey so far... (8 mins + 3 mins PL sharing) - Explore how people evolved to their current roles and the experience they bring with them.

7 COMMUNICATION SKILLS ACTIVITIES

1. Build an Animal (10-30 mins) - Start a discussion about clear instructions and interpretations.
2. Build My Duck (20-30 mins) - Highlight what happens when communication is sporadic and unclear.
3. My Duck's Better Than Yours! (20-30 mins) - Explore the nuance of “great” vs. “best.”
4. The “RIGHT” Duck? (5-10 mins + Discussion) - Demonstrate the importance of clarity.
5. Making Connections (5-10 mins + Discussion) - Illustrate how more people, means more interpretations.
6. Picture This (15-30 mins) - Show how visual images are seen differently, or explore the impact of limited resources.
7. Persuasive Communications (20-30 mins) - Increase confidence in approaching others.

7 ACTIVITIES FOR TEAM DYNAMICS

1. Follow the Leader (20-30 mins) - Highlight that the role of leader in a team isn’t always what you imagine.
2. The Value of Values (30-40 mins) - How one’s values may link or clash with the team.
3. Defining Company Values (60 mins) - Allow teams to explore company values in more depth.
4. Hanging off the Edge (30-40 mins) - Get the team working together to come up with a solution to a unique challenge.
5. Sabotage (30-40 mins) - Explore how people may approach a task differently depending on their goals.
6. Ask Me! (20-30 mins) - Discover the talents of each team member.
7. Beyond the Team (30-40 mins) - Highlight the impact of additional stakeholders.

NOTE: LEGO® is not associated with this product

Create good vibes! Don't wait for huge accomplishments to give positive feedback. Use these clever notes liberally to boost learners' and colleagues' spirits, recognize large or small contributions, and inspire continued effort.

Kudos Note Pad Set (25 sheets/pad; 10 pads/set). Each pad is approx. 4" x 5.5".

Volume discounts available. Unit Prices shown refer to 1 pack of 10 pads.

Certificate Plaque – Slide-In Display for 8.5" × 11" Certificates delivers a professional, elegant presentation for awards, diplomas, and recognition certificates. For special awards, present certificates in an employee recognition plaque that looks and feels like real wood.

Just slide your certificate under the acrylic sheet. No assembly required! Recipients will be thrilled to display their certificate in an attractive, wooden certificate plaque that exudes professionalism. Instill a sense of pride and accomplishment in your program’s participants by rewarding them with a certificate they’ll always cherish.

These hefty (3 lbs) 10.5" × 13" plaques mimic real wood with an acrylic front that effortlessly slides in—no assembly required. Whether mounted vertically or horizontally, it’s built to last and showcase accomplishments with pride.

FEATURES & DETAILS

• Premium material: Pressed wood construction with a rich finish that looks like true wood
• Slide-in design: Simply slide the certificate under the acrylic—no tools or assembly
• Dual mounting: Includes holes for vertical or horizontal wall hanging
• Ideal size: 10.5" × 13" allows for standard 8.5" × 11" certificates (not included)
• Bulk savings: 10–29 plaques at $24.50 each; 30 or more at $23.85 each

WHY IT WORKS

• Display with dignity: A slide-in plaque elevates awards, making recipients feel honored
• Ready right out of the box: No labor: slide in, hang it, and recognize instantly
• Adaptable and versatile: Its weight and design suit both wall mounting and desktop placement
• Efficient bulk option: Save on cost without sacrificing quality for large recognition events

BEST USES FOR EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION PLAQUES

• Corporate training and development recognition
• Employee awards and appreciation programs
• Graduations, commencements, and academic achievements
• Professional associations and membership recognition
• Certificates displayed in offices to highlight achievement and motivate others

FAQS

Q: Can the plaque be hung both ways?
A: Yes. It includes mounting holes to hang either vertically or horizontally, depending on your display preference.

Q: How do I insert a certificate?
A: No tools needed. Just slide your 8.5x11 certificate under the acrylic cover, and you're ready to award.

Q: Is any assembly required?
A: None at all. The plaque comes fully assembled—with the acrylic already fitted—so you can hang or set it up immediately.

Q: Do you offer bulk pricing?
A: Larger quantities sold in 10-piece cartons. Trainers Warehouse offers quantity discounts on orders of more than 10 plaques.

Q: Who are these best suited for?
A: HR teams, trainers, program coordinators, managers, supervisors, administrators, professional associations, and universities who deliver awards, certificates, or recognition with impact that lasts beyond the moment.

MORE FROM TRAINERS WAREHOUSE

We invite you to explore all of our awards and recognition products. Find the perfect accessory for your certificates of appreciation plaques. In addition to these elegant plaques, we also offer clear plastic sleeves and padded folders. Complete the package with pins and trophies designed specifically for recognizing a job well done.

As a family-owned business, we work hard to deliver top-quality products, so place your bulk order with confidence. Build engagement, motivation, and excitement with a professional-looking wooden certificate plaques. Like all of our products, these certificate plaques are fully backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee—if you’re not fully delighted with your purchase, we’ll make it right.

This is the classiest way we know to bring your people back to their seats. These three-toned chimes are affordable, pleasant, and friendly. Ideal for small classrooms. Complete with mallet. Wood and metal construction. 7.25" x 3.5" x 1.25"

The tones are 3 separate and distinct sounds. Please see and listen to the video to hear the tones.

View video for great ideas on how to use CHIMES in meetings!

MORE RESOURCES

• Tips and Tricks for Managing Time
• Mayonnaise/Mayo Jar Demonstration
• More Time Management Activities

WeConnect™ Creative Nametags (pack of 150) are peel-and-stick, color-coded conversation starters that help participants skip the small talk and jump straight into fun, engaging, and meaningful connections. Each nametag has two blanks to fill in: your name plus a conversation prompt — making them the perfect networking tool, icebreaker, or event energizer.

BEYOND “HELLO, MY NAME IS…”

• GREEN: Fun & light conversations
• BLUE: A little deeper — thoughtful prompts
• PURPLE: All-in sharing & reflection

The color-coding makes it easy to spot who’s ready for a light chat, deeper insights, or reflective conversations — helping participants connect at the level they’re most comfortable. There are two different prompts for each color.

WHY THESE NAME TAGS ARE AWESOME

The two hardest things about walking into a crowded room where you don't know anybody are: 1) which cluster of people should I "glom" onto?; and 2) if I connect with one person, what should I talk about or ask? We Connect nametags make meet & greet activities so much easier and more fun. Beyond sharing your name, they let you share a hint about a topic of interest that you'd like to explore with others.

• Break the ice: Move beyond standard introductions at conferences, meetups, and networking events.
• Ditch the small talk: Spark thoughtful, meaningful discussions right away.
• Find common ground: Quickly connect with people who share your interests or energy level.
• Make it easy: Reduce the stress of entering a crowded room; make networking fun and comfortable.
• Deepen relationships: Create “aha!” moments, laughter, and insights that strengthen bonds.

WHEN TO USE THEM

• Networking Events: Foster real connections in minutes.
• Employee Gatherings: Give teams permission to play and bond in new ways.
• Training & Learning Sessions: Build trust, engagement, and stronger teams.

FAQs

Q: How are these nametags different from regular “Hello My Name Is” tags?
A: Instead of just showing your name, WeConnect™ Nametags include color-coded prompts that spark real conversations — fun, thoughtful, or reflective.

Q: How many nametags are in a pack?
A: Each pack includes 150 peel-and-stick nametags with a mix of 6 conversation-starting prompts.

Q: What kinds of events are they best for?
A: Perfect for networking events, conferences, meetups, employee gatherings, and training sessions where you want to build connection and skip the small talk.

Q: Are the prompts appropriate for all audiences?
A: Yes. The prompts are universally applicable, suitable for professional, academic, and social settings.

Q: Who uses them most often?
A: Event organizers, facilitators, HR teams, program directors, and teachers who want participants to engage quickly and meaningfully.

WeConnect Nametags turn small talk into meaningful talk — making every event more memorable.

Quote Builders consists of a handful of collaborative puzzles generated from 18 different inspirational quotes guaranteed to make you think.

QUOTE BUILDERS INCLUDES

The 48-card hexagonal deck consists of 18 quotes from icons like Golda Meir, John Steinbeck, Maya Angelou, Margaret Thatcher, Eleanor Roosevelt, Frederick Douglass, and more. These quotes serve as an "answer key" for the quote puzzle cards.

Each of the quotes on the black cards can be "built" from the words on the accompanying blue, green, and purple cards. The cards are color-coded, indicating the difficulty of figuring out the order of the words in the quote. As such, the deck includes

• 12 HARD cards (blue)
• 10 MEDIUM cards (purple)
• 8 EASY cards (green)

On each card, you'll find the following elements, working from the outside of the card, inward:

• One or two words on each of the six sides. All are in different fonts/colors, as this indicates which words will make up the famous quotation.
• 6 numbers match the color-coding of the deck (which would help any who might be color-blind)
  • 1-6 are blue
  • 7-12 are purple
  • 13-18 are green
• The inner hexagon identifies the number of cards in the set, so teams can be sure they have all the cards necessary to build a quote. (12 blue, 10 purple, 8 green).

FACILITATING THE GAME

Setup: Select a difficulty. Shuffle the cards of the same color together, then distribute them evenly among the players. Do not pass out the black answer key card.

Play: Select one of the six quotes in a set and work together with your team to arrange the cards until you discover the answer. Solutions will always match fonts and colors. If you solve a quote, select a new quote and play again. Or use the cards to build a brand new inspirational quote from scratch.

VARIATIONS

1. No visuals - Teams are likely to lay out their cards to come up with the answer. For added difficulty, ask that players keep their card(s) hidden from teammates. Explain that they are only able to speak the words on their cards, but may not show them or put them down. For further difficulty, after a group has been through the exercise a few times, tell them they can ONLY speak the word on their card, and all other communications must be non-verbal.
2. Create-a-quote - Ask teams to build their own quote with an assortment of words from the cards they're dealt.
3. Reflection - Distribute the quote "answer key" cards as an ice-breaker or reflection game.

It's perfect for professional facilitators, leaders, trainers, coaches, or anyone who uses experiential learning to bring out the best communication and collaboration from their team. With four ways to play, you'll be returning to this activity again and again.

MORE TIPS

In addition to the tips shared here, the packaging has a QR code, allowing facilitators to access/download additional tips online.

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!

Build Emotional Intelligence—wherever you are! Whether you're running a team meeting, virtual classroom, or remote training session, this online version of The EQ Game makes it easy to build emotional intelligence skills from anywhere.

THE EQ GAME * OVERVIEW

• Purpose: Build emotional intelligence by exploring real-world challenges and identifying skills to navigate them. Foster deep conversations and team connection. EQ Game makes learning the skill of emotional intelligence fun, interactive, and memorable.

• Format: Online/virtual game—perfect for Zoom, Teams, or other video platforms

• Time Required: Up to 90 minutes for Parts 1 and 2 combined. However, those with less time can use just a handful of the situations, adapting to their specific needs.

EQ GAME VIRTUAL EDITION * INCLUDES

These 7 files (conveniently compressed into a single .ZIP file) will give you all you need to conduct the game as a single large group experiences, or in the format of 4 breakout groups:

FACILITATING THE EQ GAME VIRTUAL EDITION

The game is facilitated in two parts. Part 1 builds the first two Emotional Intelligence skills and Part 2 helps develop the second two skills.

PART 1: SELF-AWARENESS & SELF-MANAGEMENT

Focusing on the first two pillars of emotional intelligence, PART 1 presents 20 typical situations that anyone might encounter at work. Each situation includes two slides:

• Slide 1: shows a scenario with two questions—

  • How are you feeling?
  • What will you do to manage your feelings?—plus sample responses.

• Slide 2: answers the questions - by offering additional answers for both questions, players can compare their answers to other typical responses. Reiterate that the answers shown on the slides are there as suggestions. There are never "right" feelings. The goal instead is to grow more familiar with noticing and labeling feelings.

PART 2: SOCIAL AWARENESS & RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT

Part 2 adds to Part 1 by asking participants to focus on the second two skills associated with Emotional Intelligence: Social Awareness and Relationship Management. Part 2 presents 16 typical work situations, with the goal of moving from identifying and managing feelings to taking action in ways that reflect social awareness and strengthen relationships.

• Introduction slides
• Slide 1: shows a scenario with four questions
  • How are you feeling?
  • What will you do to manage your feelings?
  • How can you tune into your co-worker?
  • What relationship skills can you use?
• Slide 2: answers the questions - as noted above, suggested answers are offered for guidance, not as "final say."

FACILITATING & SCORING THE GAME

FLOW OF THE GAME

1. Show the first slide and ask participants to put themselves in the scenario. Read the sample feelings and actions.
2. Then ask, “What else are you feeling?”, empahsizing that feelings are one-word emotions (e.g., angry, happy), not thoughts or interpretations.
3. After players list their feelings, ask: “How will you manage those feelings?” Read the example.
4. Then ask, “What else can you do?” Keep the focus on Self-Management, not problem-solving the situation itself.
5. Finally, have teams self-score the round, based on the scoring protocols below.

PLAY AS A GROUP OR IN BREAK-OUTS

LARGE GROUP - If you're playing as one big group, you'll present the Situations one at a time. You can either follow the game sequence or pick and choose your favorites.

BREAKOUTS - Alternatively, participants can work through a subset of Situations in small groups. Each of the four groups will get 5 situations in Part 1 and 4 situations in Part 2.

SCORING THE EQ GAME

• Each time a participant names a feeling or a self-management technique, they get 1 point.
• Each time a participant provides a social awareness action or relationship management technique, they get 1 point.
• Participants can win additional points by:
  • Giving an example of a situation they have experienced – 2 points
  • Giving an example of an empathetic statement – 2 points
• Participants keep track of their own points.

DISCUSSION STARTERS THAT GET YOU TALKING ABOUT MEANINGFUL TOPICS

It's time to open up the conversation and talk about the unspeakable! The Shaped By Our Past deck helps people get to know each other by looking into the past and the roads traveled. Walk a mile in someone else's shoes to understand what makes people tick! 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! (Click on the card images above to see the prompts).

Each deck contains the same prompts as its namesake Thumball (you can customize any blank cards with your own discussion prompts)

SHAPED BY OUR PAST CONVERSATION 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

Cards: 3.5” x 2.5”

MEET TRIDGET™ YOUR NEW FAVORITE FIDGET TOOL

Looking for a fun way to stay focused? Say hello to the 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, Tridget spins and twists effortlessly through your fingers, creating a satisfying, mesmerizing experience you won’t want to put down. [NOTE * PATENT PENDING.]

WHY YOU'LL LOVE TRIDGET

• Bright & Playful: Each Tridget comes in a vibrant swirl of two colors — Ocean (Blue/Aqua) or Lemon/Lime (Green/Yellow). Colors are picked at random for a fun surprise with every order! (Heads up: Product images might not match exactly what's in stock, but they’re always eye-catching!)

• Smooth & Soothing: The silky-smooth texture feels great against your skin, offering a calming sensation even after hours of fidgeting.

• Quietly Captivating: As you spin, the gentle clacking sound provides just the right amount of sensory feedback without distracting your neighbors or coworkers.

WHY FIDGET?

Worried that fidget toys might cause more distraction than focus? You’re not alone. But in reality, countless users swear by the power of fidgeting. Fidget toys like Tridget help channel restless energy, creating a more relaxed, playful atmosphere whether you're at work, in class, or in a workshop. They occupy what scientists call "floating attention" — the restless, background awareness that once helped early humans survive — freeing up your brain to better focus on the task at hand.

Research shows that purposeful movement can actually improve memory, concentration, and creativity. Fidgeting can also help reduce anxiety and stress, making it easier to stay calm and engaged during long meetings or study sessions. For individuals with ADD, ADHD, or sensory processing needs, a fidget tool can be an essential way to self-regulate and maximize learning potential.

Whether you’re a kinesthetic learner, a natural fidgeter, or just someone who loves a good sensory experience, Tridget is a simple yet powerful tool to help you stay sharp, focused, and relaxed.

Give Tridget a Try!

Click here to view FREE Facilitation Notes on using FIDDLES in the classroom!

Enrich the "sensory diet" of your learners. 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.

MORE RESOURCES

• • Finding the Best Fidget Toy for You
  • 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

TRAXX™: YOUR GO-TO FIDGET TOOL FOR ENDLESS FOCUS

Looking for a new way to stay focused and calm? Meet Traxx™ — a colorful, palm-sized fidget toy that's designed to keep your hands busy and your mind clear! Made with four “tracks” linked end-to-end, Traxx twists, turns, and bends effortlessly, offering endless ways to fidget, spin, and pivot through your fingertips. Inspired by rugged tanks and snowmobiles, Traxx delivers a satisfyingly smooth, flexible feel you won’t want to put down. [NOTE: PATENT PENDING]

WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT

• Bright & Bold: Each Traxx comes in a vibrant swirl of two colors — Flame (Orange/Yellow) or Sky (Dark Blue/Light Blue). Colors are picked randomly for your order, making every shipment a fun surprise! (Note: Product images may not match stock exactly, but they’ll always be vibrant and eye-catching.)

• Smooth & Soothing: The silky texture is perfect for hours of fidgeting and stress relief.

• Quiet: As you spin and flex the tracks, you won't hear much of anything. Feel confident that this fidget won't distract others.

• Endless Movement: Thanks to the smart design, the chain of beads flexes along one axis and swivels along the other, rotating a full 360 degrees for non-stop, mesmerizing motion.

WHY FIDGET?

Many people wonder if fidget toys cause more distraction than focus. In fact, the opposite is true! Fidgeting engages your "floating attention" — the natural, restless awareness our ancestors relied on to survive — allowing your brain to better concentrate on what's important today. Whether you have ADD/ADHD, consider yourself a kinesthetic learner, or just tend to fidget, Traxx can help you stay focused, absorb information better, and feel calmer during meetings, study sessions, or long workdays.

5 BENFITS OF FIDGETING WITH TRAXX™

1. Boosts focus and concentration

2. Helps manage stress and anxiety

3. Enhances memory and retention

4. Encourages creativity and problem-solving

5. Provides a calming, sensory-friendly outlet for restless energy

Take a spin with Traxx — and power up your focus in style!

Click here to view FREE Facilitation Notes on using FIDDLES in the classroom!

Enrich the "sensory diet" of your learners. 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.

MORE RESOURCES

• • Finding the Best Fidget Toy for You
  • 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

WHAT'S INSIDE THE BRAIN BUILDING BLUEPRINTS FACILITATOR KIT?

This comprehensive kit includes a powerful mix of resources to help you design, deliver, and optimize impactful learning experiences. These research-backed, brain-based resources make lesson planning faster, easier, and more engaging. While the Flip Book offers a structured, comprehensive guide for planning sessions, the Card Deck serves as a grab-and-go solution for injecting high-energy, interactive exercises into any training. Together, these resources empower educators and trainers to plan and facilitate learning experiences that are not only effective but also memorable and enjoyable. Whether you're leading a classroom, corporate training, or workshop, these tools help ensure that every learner stays engaged, connected, and actively involved in the learning process.

BRAIN BUILDING TOOLS & RESOURCES: ESSENTIAL COMPONENTS FOR DESIGN & DELIVERY

1. Brain Building Blueprints Flip Book – A practical flip-through guide featuring a collection of brain-friendly learning activities, based on the 4Cs Brain-Based Learning Model. Quickly find and implement the perfect activity for any stage of learning!

FLIP BOOK FEATURES (ALSO SOLD SEPARATELY: #RDBBBB)

• An innovative, easy-to-use tool designed to help trainers, educators, and facilitators create engaging and interactive learning experiences with minimal preparation.
• Rely on the structured approach of the 4Cs Brain-Based Learning Model—Connections, Concepts, Concrete Practice, and Conclusions—this flip-and-go resource provides an intuitive approach to designing high-impact learning sessions.
• Quickly locate relevant activities that align with your learners' needs, ensuring an effective and well-paced learning experience.
• Easily map out a complete learning session.
• Draw on step-by-step facilitation instructions, estimated time requirements, and a list of any necessary materials, so you can focus on delivering an impactful lesson rather than scrambling to plan it.
• Utilize write-on, wipe-off pages at the back of the book to maximize planning and remember what you did from session to session.

2. 4Cs Brain Building Instructional Design Card Deck (44 Activities) – A compact and convenient set of 44 engaging exercises designed to boost learner participation and retention.

ACTIVITIES DECK INCLUDES (ALSO SOLD SEPARATELY #RDBBBC)

• 44 carefully curated activities – quick, high-impact exercises that align with the 4Cs Brain-Based Learning Model, making it easier than ever to design interactive and effective learning experiences on the go.
• Color-coding indicates which stage of the 4Cs framework it supports, though many activities can be used in multiple contexts, giving facilitators the flexibility to adapt as needed.
• Clear instructions so that activities can be put to use immediately. On each card, find the activity name, an overview of its purpose, estimated duration, setup instructions, required materials, and a clear, step-by-step facilitation guide.

3. 4Cs Brain Building Expansion Card Deck (44 Additional Activities) – Double your engagement options with an extra deck packed with 44 more powerful brain-friendly activities! For those looking for even more variety, an expansion pack is part of the Facilitator Kit.

4. Destination Design Pad – A structured planning tool to help facilitators map out learning outcomes based on:

• Goals – What do learners need to achieve?
• Motivation – How do you inspire engagement?
• Action Plans – Steps to apply the learning.
• Roadblocks – Identifying challenges and solutions

5. 4Cs Laminated Map – A visual session-planning tool that outlines the 4Cs Brain-Based Learning Model, helping you structure engaging and effective lessons with ease.

6. Two Brain Break Laminates – Quick-reference reminders to schedule essential brain breaks during sessions—because a refreshed brain learns better!

7. 50 "Safety" Cards – A unique participant engagement tool, consisting of 10 sets of 5 signal cards that learners can use to communicate with the facilitator without disrupting the session:

• ELMO (Enough, Let's Move On) – When participants feel ready to progress.
• Question – A signal that someone needs clarification.
• Help – When support is needed.
• Appreciation – A non-verbal way to express gratitude.
• Pass – An option to skip responding or participating in a particular moment.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THE BRAIN BUILDING BLUEPRINTS FACILITATOR KIT

• All-in-One Training Toolkit – Everything you need for seamless, interactive learning experiences in a single kit.
• Saves Time & Effort – Ready-to-use tools mean zero prep time—just grab, flip, and facilitate!
• Brain-Based & Research-Backed – Every component is designed to align with how the brain learns best.
• Versatile & Adaptable – Works for any subject, skill level, and learning format (live or virtual).
• Boosts Engagement & Interaction – Keeps learners active, focused, and participating, leading to higher retention and better outcomes.
• Designed for All Educators & Facilitators – Whether you're a teacher, corporate trainer, coach, or workshop leader, this kit helps you deliver high-impact sessions effortlessly.

WHO SHOULD USE THIS KIT?

• Corporate Trainers looking to make learning more engaging and interactive
• Classroom Teachers who want to implement brain-friendly teaching strategies
• Facilitators & Coaches who need a quick-access toolkit for engagement
• Workshop Leaders & Presenters who want structured, high-energy learning sessions
• Anyone leading learning experiences and seeking practical, research-backed tools!

TAKE YOUR LEARNING SESSIONS TO THE NEXT LEVEL!

With the Brain Building Blueprints Facilitator Kit, you have a powerful suite of tools to create meaningful, engaging, and interactive learning experiences—without the stress of planning from scratch!

Ready to transform the way you teach and train? Get your Facilitator Kit today and watch your learners connect, engage, and retain more than ever before!

WATCH THE DEMO

The 4Cs Instructional Design Model – In a Deck!

Each card in this deck is mapped to the 4Cs Brain-Based Learning Approach, making it effortless to design high-impact learning experiences:

C1 – CONNECTIONS: Get learners interacting and linking new concepts to prior knowledge.

C2 – CONCEPTS: Deliver new information using engaging, multi-sensory techniques.

C3 – CONCRETE PRACTICE: Reinforce learning through hands-on activities, peer teaching, and application.

C4 – CONCLUSIONS: Encourage learners to reflect, summarize, and create action plans for retention.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

The 56-card deck is packed with everything you need to facilitate meaningful and engaging learning sessions:

• 44 Activity Cards – Featuring 11 exercises for each of the 4Cs.
• Overview Card – A quick guide to the deck and its use.
• Tips Card – Helpful suggestions for maximizing engagement.
• A Cool Elastic Band – To keep your deck organized and ready to go!

ON EACH ACTIVITY CARD…

Each card is intuitively designed to provide clear, actionable guidance at a glance:

• Color-Coded Categories – Helps you easily identify where an activity fits in the 4Cs model (but many activities are versatile and can be adapted to multiple stages).
  
• Activity Name – A quick reference for what the exercise is all about.
  
• Purpose Overview – Explains why and how the activity enhances learning.
  
• Time Estimate – Most activities take under 5 minutes—perfect for quick, high-impact engagement!
  
• Description & Setup – A concise explanation of the activity, including any necessary materials.
  
• Facilitation Instructions – Step-by-step guidance to help you confidently lead the exercise.

Why You'll Love the Brain Building Blueprints Card Deck

• Instant Engagement – Quickly liven up any learning environment, whether in a classroom, meeting, or corporate training session.
  
• Brain-Based & Research-Backed – Every activity is designed for maximum learner retention and participation.
  
• Portable & Convenient – A compact, grab-and-go resource for trainers, educators, and facilitators.
  
• Versatile & Adaptable – Works for all age groups, topics, and skill levels, in live or virtual settings.
  
• Zero Prep Time – Everything you need is on the card—no lengthy lesson planning required!

Make learning more interactive, engaging, and effective—wherever you are! Get your Brain Building Blueprints Card Deck today and start creating powerful learning experiences with ease.

MORE BRAIN-BUILDING BLUEPRINT TOOLS!

Use the Brain-Building Blueprint Flipbook to organize your 4C Instructional Design Planning. (#RDBBBB)

The Brain Building Blueprint Facilitator Kit allows trainers to design and deliver exceptional brain-friendly learning. (#RDBBBF)

WATCH THE DEMO