Equipment / Materials

• None

Setup

1. Choose one person to be the captain.
2. Have all other players spread out in an open space.

Game Play

1. The captain calls out, “The boat is sinking! Each lifeboat can hold (number) people!”
2. Players must quickly form groups of that exact number.
3. Anyone who is left out must answer a question about themselves.
4. The captain repeats the process with a new number each time.
5. The game continues for as long as desired.

Variations

• If a player is left out three times, they can be “out” of the game.
• The odd group can do a fun action instead of answering a question, like jumping or singing.
• Use faith-based questions to connect the game to a lesson.

Safety Notes

• Make sure players move carefully to avoid bumping into each other.
• Play in a space large enough for safe movement.
• Remind players to be kind and include everyone.

For more information, see https://young-catholics.com/948/the-boat-is-sinking-game-icebreaker/