Spatial Requirements: Classroom with moderate space required
Activity Type: Movement/group
Grades: 1-12
Group Size: 10 or more
Time: 15 minutes

Introduction: Through this activity, students will understand the importance of a positive supportive network in their lives. They will learn that the more connections and support one has, the better prepared they will be to face life’s challenges.

Materials:

• 1 ball of yarn or cotton twine
• 1 lightweight ball, such as a blow-up beach ball or a foam ball

Activity:

Have your group form a rectangle. Select one person to be the leader. The leader must throw the yarn to someone in the circle. That person then throws the ball of yarn to someone else. The only rule is that you cannot throw it to someone right next to you.  As you throw, you must keep hold of the end of the yarn as you toss it to another member of the group. Everyone must catch the yarn and throw it to another student who has not yet had the yarn thrown to them. The group is creating a web. To make the web bigger and tighter, you may want to have another round of each person catching and throwing the yarn.  The goal is to be able to bounce or roll the ball lengthwise across the rectangular web without it touching the ground.

Processing the Experience:

• How are we connected to one another in this activity?
• How are we connected to one another in life?
• Did having more connections help keep the ball from hitting the ground?
• How does having connections and support make a difference in your life?