Clap-A-Round is a great activity for either an opening or closing. It keys in on teamwork and focus and is simple to play. I’ve found that all age levels enjoy this, even adults! The activity can take as little as 2-3 minutes and can be pushed out longer if needed! Another great perk? No preparation is needed!
Explaining How it Works
As the activity facilitator, clap your hand once and turn to the person to your right. Then that person claps. This continues, with one person at a time clapping once until it comes back to you. I often model this once with the group by walking around the circle and pointing to the person whose turn it is to clap.
Round 1
Once they get how it works, the challenge is to see if the group can be successful in having one person clap at a time, in order, as it goes around the circle. Keep doing this round until there is success or time runs out.
Round 2
Repeat the same process but do it quicker. It’s all about speed!
Round 3
Repeat the same process BUT have the order go in the opposite way.
Round 4
Continue the challenge that was done in Round 3, but let the group know that as it gets back to you (the person who began the process), you are silently going to start a new pattern. When it does get back to you, push the clapping in the other direction and see if it can come all the way back.
Round 5
Start with a clap, then have the person to the right tap both of their knees. The following person claps. The next person (this would be the 4th person overall) taps both of their knees. This pattern continues until it makes it back to the beginning.
If a group shows success with the five rounds, you can begin creating new patterns. This activity is always good for a communal laugh, and it brings the group closer together!
Do you have a group that is amazing at this? Send us the video so we can celebrate it!
-Edtomorrow Team