The Yarn Web of Shout-Outs: Weave It and Unwind It

In a circle, the yarn ball goes from person to person and whoever passes it gives a specific shout-out to the person receiving it; then the group moves the web without tangling it and unwinds it. It encourages peer recognition and calm cooperation.

How to play

1. Two circles of about fifteen, sitting or standing. One person holds the loose end and the ball of yarn (1 min).
2. Roll or gently toss the ball to someone in the circle and name something specific they did well today. The yarn stays taut between you (3 min).
3. Once everyone holds yarn, slowly raise the web overhead and lower it to the floor without anyone letting go (2 min).
4. Unwind in reverse order: each person sends the ball back to whoever gave it, winding it up, and says thanks (3 min).
5. Put the yarn back in the equipment bag (1 min).

Rules

• Shout-outs must be specific and about today's class: a pass, a helping hand, an attitude.
• Nobody gets the yarn twice until everyone has had it.
• Pass gently, at chest height or rolling.
• No comments about anyone's looks.

Variations

Adaptations

• Visually impaired students: say their name before passing and hand them the yarn.
• Students uneasy speaking in public: write the shout-out on paper for the receiver to read.
• Wheelchair users: may hold the yarn looped around the armrest if they prefer.

Learning goals

• Recognize classmates' work.
• Strengthen group bonds.
• Calm down with a cooperative activity.

Equipment for a class of 25

• balls of yarn: 2

Teacher tip

Watch who gets the yarn: if someone is being left for last, ask the circle to include them sooner. With more than fifteen, the yarn runs out; use a thick ball or make two circles.

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