Blind Drawing Teambuilding Game

Engaging youth in meaningful activities that foster personal growth and build important life skills is a key aspect of effective youth ministry. One such activity that combines fun and learning is the game of Blind Drawing. In this game, participants are encouraged to communicate clearly and precisely while creating hilarious drawings. Beyond its entertainment value, Blind Drawing serves as a powerful tool to emphasize the significance of effective communication and the potential misunderstandings that can arise when we fail to articulate our thoughts accurately.

The Purpose of Blind Drawing

Blind Drawing is not merely a recreational game; it holds a deeper purpose within the context of youth ministry. The primary objective of the game is to help young people understand the importance of clear communication. By engaging in this activity, participants are challenged to convey information in a precise and coherent manner, highlighting the necessity of effectively expressing thoughts and ideas to ensure proper understanding.

Additionally, Blind Drawing creates a platform for discussions around the potential pitfalls of miscommunication. Through shared laughter and reflection, participants can explore how easily misunderstandings can occur and the impact they can have on relationships. This game provides an opportunity to emphasize empathy and encourage open dialogue to prevent and resolve communication breakdowns in various aspects of life.

How to Play Blind Drawing

To play Blind Drawing, the following materials are required per pair:

1. Sheet of paper
2. Set of crayons or markers
3. A photo or picture

The game follows these simple instructions:

1. Divide the group into pairs, ensuring each pair has one person designated as the “drawer” and the other as the “describer.”
2. Provide the drawer with the paper and crayons while giving the describer the photo or picture. Make sure the describer does not let the drawer see the original image.
3. Have the two participants sit back to back, ensuring no visual cues can be exchanged.
4. Explain to the describer that they must instruct the drawer on what to draw in order to replicate the picture accurately. However, they are prohibited from naming any objects in the picture. Instead, they can only use colors and shapes to convey their instructions.
5. Set a time limit, such as five minutes, for the drawing process.
6. Once the time is up, have each pair reveal both the original photo and the drawing they created.

Notes for Successful Gameplay

To ensure the game runs smoothly and effectively, consider the following points:

• Provide clear examples: Explain to the describers that they can only use colors and shapes to describe the picture. Offer them specific examples to help them grasp this concept. For instance, instead of saying “Draw a tree,” they should say, “Draw a long brown rectangle. Put a big green blob on top of the rectangle.”
• Encourage teamwork: Emphasize the importance of teamwork and active listening during the game. Both the drawer and the describer should work together, asking clarifying questions and actively seeking understanding to create the most accurate drawing possible.
• Foster reflection and discussion: After the game, gather the participants in a group setting and encourage them to share their experiences and observations. Facilitate a discussion about the challenges they faced during the game and how miscommunication can occur even when we believe we are being clear. Encourage participants to reflect on strategies for effective communication and the significance of actively seeking clarity in their interactions with others.

Blind Drawing offers a unique and engaging way to teach youth about the significance of clear communication, empathy, and understanding. Through laughter and reflection, participants learn to navigate the complexities of conveying information accurately while recognizing the potential for misunderstandings. This game serves as a powerful tool within youth ministry, encouraging personal growth, fostering healthy relationships, and equipping young people with the essential communication skills they need to thrive in all areas of life.