Young children might be shy about interacting with their teammates when they first join a sports team, and this shyness can prevent teammates from communicating well enough to work together. You can help the players on your team get to know each other with team-building exercises. These activities will also help your players learn to rely on each other and work well together as a team.
Hula Hoop Pass
This deceptively simple exercise requires players to communicate to solve a problem. Have the players stand in a circle with their hands joined. Break the circle to slip a hula hoop over one player's arm. Instruct the team to pass the hula hoop around the entire circle without breaking the chain of joined hands.
The Blob
This silly version of tag will help players relax and have fun while working together. Designate one player to begin the game as the blob. The blob must chase her teammates to try to tag them. Tagged players must join hands with the blob, and all members of the blob must move together to try to tag more players. Continue the game until only one player remains separated from the blob. That player can start the next round as the blob.
Blind Obstacle Course
Set up a simple obstacle course using cones. Divide your players into pairs and have one player in each pair cover her eyes with a bandana or strip of fabric. The blindfolded players must rely on the verbal instructions of their partners to navigate the obstacle course. If a player touches or knocks over any of the cones, she must start the obstacle course again. Once all players have completed the course, they must then direct their partners through the course.
Blanket Volleyball
Divide the team into groups of four or five and give each group a large blanket or beach towel. Each group must work together to hold the blanket out. Have groups launch water balloons or beach balls back and forth with their blankets. Teams must move together to catch the balloon or ball in their blanket before it hits the ground. Play for points or just for fun.
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