Spatial Requirements: Regular classroom setup: little or no space required
Activity Type: Movement/group
Grades: K-12
Group Size: 4 or more
Time: 5-10 minutes

Introduction: This activity shows that the more positive support an individual has, the easier it becomes for that individual to overcome challenges in life.

Materials:

•  None

Activity:

Ask the group to stand up and find a partner.  Demonstrate the three symbols. The first is a rabbit.  Place both hands above your head with your two index fingers on each hand pointing up like rabbit ears.  The next is a moose.  This is made by taking both hands, with the palm facing the front, and placing a thumb in each ear like antlers.  The last is a walrus.  This is done by putting your index fingers next to your mouth, pointing down like tusks.

Tell the pairs that their goal is to guess what symbol their partner is making and to match it.  There is no talking allowed. Ask the pairs to stand back to back and make the symbol that they think their partner is making. On the count of three, have them turn around and show their partner. (You may want to demonstrate this with a partner first.)  If they match their partner’s symbol, they can sit down.  If not, have them remain standing.  Repeat the activity and have the pairs keep trying until all the pairs match.  

Processing the Experience: 

• How many of you matched the first time? 
• How many of you took several tries to match?
• Why is it important to connect with people in our own lives?
• How can these connections help us solve our own problems?