Paper Cranes
Paper Cranes is a team-building activity that combines individual reflection with collaborative creation. Participants explore personal wishes and then work together to fold paper cranes, culminating in a shared art installation that symbolizes collective aspirations.
Use this method to foster connection, encourage teamwork, and create a memorable shared experience, especially during team offsites or workshops where a sense of unity and purpose is desired.
Solves: Siloed teams lacking a shared sense of purpose, difficulty connecting on a personal level, need for a creative and engaging team activity.
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Step 1: Individual Wish Reflection (5 mins): Ask participants to individually consider three wishes for the year, relating to their life, work, or the world.
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Step 2: Small Group Sharing (8 mins): Have participants share their wishes in small groups (pairs or groups of 6), fostering connection and understanding.
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Step 3: Crane Folding Challenge (20-40 mins): Challenge groups to fold a specific number of paper cranes, providing instructions (written or video) and encouraging collaboration.
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Step 4: Crane Hanging & Celebration (10 mins): Facilitate the hanging of the cranes to create a collective art piece, celebrating the team's accomplishment and reinforcing the symbolism of shared wishes.
- Prepare materials in advance by creating 'goodie bags' for each group.
- Adjust the number of cranes to be folded based on group size and time available.
- Use music to create a positive and engaging atmosphere during the folding and hanging phases.
- Consider adding a reflection moment to discuss teamwork, communication, and leadership observed during the activity.
- For smaller groups, create one large crane instead of many small ones.
- Use different craft materials to add variety and personalization.
- Incorporate a deeper reflection on the meaning of collaboration and shared goals.