4 Must-Try Cooperative Games for Team Building

Team building activities are an important part of developing strong relationships, fostering communication, and promoting collaboration among team members. Cooperative games provide an excellent opportunity for teams to work together towards a common goal, and they can be a lot of fun too! In this article, we will explore four must-try cooperative games for team building that are suitable for various age groups and settings.

1. Escape Room

Objective: Work together to solve puzzles and escape the room within a specified time limit.

Escape rooms have gained popularity in recent years for their ability to challenge teams and promote problem-solving skills. In an escape room, team members are locked in a themed room and must work together to decipher clues, solve puzzles, and find hidden objects in order to unlock the room and escape. The time limit adds an element of urgency and encourages effective communication and quick thinking.

Tips:

• Assign roles and responsibilities to each team member based on their strengths and skills.
• Encourage open communication and the sharing of ideas and observations.
• Stay organized and keep track of the clues and information discovered.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for hints or assistance if you get stuck.

2. Tower Building

Objective: Build the tallest tower using limited resources.

Tower building is a classic team building game that requires collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Teams are given a set of materials such as straws, tape, and paper, and they must work together to construct the tallest tower possible within a time limit. This game promotes teamwork, communication, and innovative thinking.

Tips:

• Encourage brainstorming and the sharing of ideas before starting to build.
• Assign specific roles to team members, such as a builder, a strategist, and a timekeeper.
• Keep track of time and allocate resources efficiently.
• Test the stability and strength of the tower as you build.

3. Minefield

Objective: Guide a blindfolded teammate through a “minefield” without stepping on hidden obstacles.

Minefield is a trust-building game that requires effective communication and teamwork. Teams set up a “minefield” using objects such as cones or chairs, and one member is blindfolded. The rest of the team must guide the blindfolded member through the minefield by giving clear instructions and using verbal cues. This game promotes trust, communication, and active listening.

Tips:

• Establish a clear system of verbal cues before starting the game.
• Give concise and specific instructions to the blindfolded teammate.
• Encourage active listening and effective communication within the team.
• Take turns being blindfolded to give everyone a chance to experience both roles.

4. Team-based Scavenger Hunt

Objective: Work together to find and collect designated items or complete specific challenges.

A team-based scavenger hunt is a great way to promote teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. Teams are given a list of items to find or challenges to complete within a specified time limit. The team members must work together, communicate effectively, and use their problem-solving skills to accomplish the tasks. This game encourages collaboration, strategic thinking, and a sense of camaraderie.

Tips:

• Plan the scavenger hunt in a location that offers a variety of settings and challenges.
• Divide tasks and assign specific roles to team members.
• Encourage creativity and thinking outside the box when completing challenges.
• Set clear boundaries and rules to ensure the safety and fairness of the game.

Cooperative games provide an enjoyable and effective way to promote teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills among team members. Whether you are planning a team building activity for your office, a school group, or a community organization, these four must-try games can help bring people together, foster a sense of camaraderie, and create lasting memories.