The School of Play

One, Two, Three

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Objective:

Start any session with laughter, fun, and a fitness twist to energise participants and create a positive atmosphere.

Players:

Pairs of players, suitable for participants of all ages, from children as young as 4 to adults up to 80.

Materials:

No materials are required for this game.

Setup:

Participants pair up, forming teams of two.

Gameplay:

The game consists of three rounds, each with a different modification to the counting process. In each round, players take turns counting to three, and instead of simply counting, they incorporate specific bodyweight movements based on the round's modification.

Round One:

• Players count to three, taking turns.
• When pairs get to three, they start again.
• This seems very simple, but it is more complicated than you think.
• Challenge pairs to go as fast as they can.

Round Two:

• Players count to three, taking turns.
• This round, instead of saying the number one players need to clap. Two and three stay the same as saying the number.

Round Three:

• Players count to three, taking turns.
• Instead of repeating one, they clap. This time, they don't say two; instead, they nod forward—three stays as saying the number.

Round Four:

• Players count to three, taking turns.
• This round, no numbers are being said, just actions.
• Instead of repeating one, they clap. This time, they don't say two but nod forward. Instead of saying number three, you must put both arms up in the air.

Fitness Modified Game:

• In this game version, players perform body weight movements while counting to three instead of clapping, nodding, or raising hands.
• Players count to three, taking turns.
• When players say "one," they perform a designated bodyweight movement (e.g., jumping jacks).
• When players say "two," they perform another bodyweight movement (e.g., squats).
• When players say "three," they perform a different bodyweight movement (e.g., high knees).
• The counting continues, with players alternating between body weight movements and counting.

The game can be adapted to include various bodyweight movements or exercises, making it suitable for all fitness levels.

Winning the Game:

There are no winners or losers in this game. The primary goal is to have fun, get some exercise, and start the session on a positive note. Participants can celebrate their laughter and shared experiences as they complete the fitness challenges.

Variations:

• Instructors can introduce new bodyweight movements or modify existing ones to keep the game fresh and exciting.
• Participants can take turns being the leader and choosing the bodyweight movements for each round.

Note:

One, two, three is an excellent way to combine fitness, laughter, and connection at the beginning of any class, workshop, or keynote. It warms the participants and sets a lively and upbeat tone for the session.

Naughts & Crosses Reflect & Share

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Objective:

A twist on the classic game of naughts and crosses (tic-tac-toe), designed to encourage reflection, sharing, and connection between partners. Players must answer questions or perform tasks before making their move on the game board.

Players:

Played in pairs, making it suitable for classrooms, team-building sessions, or small group activities.

Materials:

• Printed PDF game cards with naughts and crosses grids and questions or activities in each square.
• Pens for writing if incorporating a journaling element.

Setup:

Each pair receives a game card. One player is assigned naughts (O), and the other is crosses (X).

Gameplay:

• Playing Naughts & Crosses: Players take turns attempting to get three of their symbols in a row (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally) to win the game.
• Reflection and Sharing: Before players can place their naught or cross on the game board, they must answer a question or share a response with their partner. Optionally, they can also write down their reflections.
• Variety of Themes: Different game cards offer various themes for reflection and sharing. There's also a fitness-themed card where players must perform movements before playing and a blank card for customising questions or activities.
• Customisation: Use the blank game card to create a game focused on specific topics or questions relevant to the group.

Winning the Game:

The traditional win condition of naughts and crosses applies – the first player to get three in a row wins.

Variations for Different Settings:

• Educational Edition: Focus on academic or learning-related questions for reflection.
• Corporate Edition: Tailor questions to professional development, team dynamics, or company values.
• Youth Group Edition: Use age-appropriate and engaging topics for younger players.

Additional Notes:

• "Naughts & Crosses Reflect & Share" combines fun gameplay with meaningful interaction and reflection.
• It's a versatile activity that can be adapted to suit various settings and purposes, from educational to team-building.
• This game offers a non-threatening, enjoyable way for participants to connect and share personal insights or experiences.