The Name Game is an appropriate opener for any group event because it gives children a chance to learn each other's names. The person facilitating the event starts and finishes the game. Have the children sit in a circle and choose a word that begins with the same sound as their name. For example, the facilitator could say "Beautiful Barbara." Then the child on the left takes his turn and repeats what the last person said. Then she adds her word choice and name: "Beautiful Barbara, Amazing Amber." The game continues with each child repeating all the names before her, and her own, until it has come back around to the leader.
Secret Calls is a game that encourages children learning to work with each other through cooperation. Divide the children into groups of three or four. Have each group choose a secret sound that will be their way of communicating with the others. Sounds could be a meow, bark, whistle, quack or something remarkably different. Blindfold the children and scatter them in different areas of the room. Without talking or touching, and communicating only by sound, the children must find the other members of their group.
Cooperative Pick-Up Straws can be played by large or small groups in pairs of two. For each pair of children you need a box of straws. These will represent sticks. Empty the straws out of each box and place them on the floor close to each other. The goal is for the children, working together as a team, to clear all the sticks or straws. Each player has a turn trying to remove a straw without touching another one. The children will enjoy this game as they encourage each other.
Lap Sit can be played by both large and small groups. Have the children stand in a circle facing inward. Then have everyone turn to the left and grab the waist of the person in front of him. Next, have everyone step inward slightly while still holding on, making the circle a bit tighter. The children then try to sit on the knees of the person behind them while keeping their knees together and still standing. Have the children do an activity while seated, such as clapping hands or touching the floor. Have the students stand and repeat the process, facing the other direction. The children will have a good time while learning to cooperate.