Is There a Need to Break the Ice?

0 Feb 2023

Resources, Useful articles

I have seen learners’ faces cringe at the mere mention of participating in an icebreaker, and I know icebreaker activities can sometimes be awkward. So why do facilitators use them? BECAUSE THEY WORK

Icebreakers allow participants to learn tidbits of personal information about each other, which makes them relax and feel closer. They begin to form connections by discovering shared interests, common dislikes, or vulnerabilities. Since there are no right or wrong answers, icebreakers can help learners feel more comfortable speaking in front of one another. This can lead to continued participation during the training event. Icebreakers also help to set the tone for the workshop. For example, does the facilitator expect learners to raise their hands and wait to be called on, or is the facilitator comfortable with learners speaking freely during a discussion? Icebreakers also prepare learners for upcoming activities (large group discussions, role plays, and collaborative work with a partner).

When designing an icebreaker, it is important to consider the following items:

Will the activity be used to introduce the learners, or will the activity lead directly into the subject matter of the training?
What is the size of the group that will be in attendance?
Will the venue be conducive to the activity?
Are all the necessary supplies accounted for?
How will the activity be introduced?
Can the directions for the activity be explained in a concise, straight-forward manner?
Is it necessary to provide a debrief following the activity?

Below is a customized icebreaker I used to kick off a team’s leadership retreat. The team’s leadership came up with 30 questions for learners to answer. The soft ball was tossed around the room, and the learner who caught the ball answered the question under his/her right thumb.