CEEPS On-Line Activity Database

Don't Touch Me

Type Audience Group Size Min. Time Equipment Source Contributor
Problem Youth 8 20 mins Place markers & timer Chris Cavert
Fun Doing		 Jennifer Steinmetz

Description

Everyone switches places with their partner across the circle, while going through the centre.

(Also known as "Chris Cross Game" - May be derived from a Karl Rohnke activity?)

Instructions

Players should be in circle, standing on place markers. With out moving, ask them to select a partner across the circle from them.  Make sure everyone has a partner – you may need to play, too.  Place an extra marker in the centre of the circle.

The challenge is for the team to set the best time possible – as a team - for everyone to switch places.  The rules are:

+  You must switch positions with your partner, without touching.

+  You must make contact with the centre spot.

+  You must say "Don't Touch Me".

A ten second penalty will be imposed for each violation (touching, missing the spot, or forgetting to say "Don't Touch Me").

Facilitator Notes

I play this one after Have You Ever...?, so the players are already on their markers.  Place the extra marker in the centre of the circle.  Safety Tip: Make sure the place markers won’t slide on the surface you are using.

Once the group hears the challenge, they will probably brainstorm for a few minutes; I ask them to give me a count down so I can start the time.  Time stops when everyone is still.  Ask if there were any touches, and add time as appropriate.

Note:  you may need to repeat the rules several times, or ask them to tell you the rules.  They can go as long the energy is good.  I just ask them each time whether they are satisfied with their time or if they think they can do better.

The spots they are standing on have nothing to do with this activity, (distractions or limits we put on ourselves).  Also the centre spot may be moved and they can move or re-organize – do not tell them this.  I do not put value judgments on their performance; rather let them decide when they are satisfied with their time.

This activity allows the group to explore planning, collaboration, trial and error, respectful communication, integrity, and looking at possibilities vs. barriers.

http://ceeps.ca/activities/DontTouchMe.htm

Contents © Copyright 2006, Andrew Welch.  Please note and credit activity Source at the top of this document.