Cotton ball race
Cotton ball race
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Team Building Activity: Cotton Ball Race
Objective
Enhance teamwork, communication, trust, and coordination in a playful relay: blindfolded teammates transfer cotton balls via spoons from start to finish without dropping them.
Materials
- 2 packs of cotton balls
- 4 chairs (2 at start, 2 at finish)
- 2 bowls or boxes (finish line collectors)
- Plastic spoons (one per participant)
- Blindfolds (one per participant)
- Masking tape (to mark start/finish lines)
Preparation & setup
- Mark a start and finish line ~7–8 feet apart with masking tape.
- Place 2 chairs at each line, spaced ~5 feet apart.
- Put one pack of cotton balls on each start‑line chair.
- Place an empty bowl/box on each finish‑line chair.
- Lay out blindfolds and one plastic spoon per participant.
- Ensure a clear, dry path between lines for safe blindfolded walking.
Step‑by‑step instructions
- Divide teams: Split participants into two equal teams; line up behind the start‑line chairs.
- First player ready: First teammate puts on a blindfold and takes a spoon.
- Collect cotton balls: Using only the spoon, pick up as many cotton balls as you can without dropping.
- Walk to finish: Carefully walk to the finish line and deposit cotton balls into your team’s bowl/box.
- Next player: Return (guided if needed). Next teammate repeats until all have played.
- Scoring: Count cotton balls in each team’s bowl at the end; most wins.
- Carry cap: Max 5 cotton balls per run—prioritizes accuracy over greed.
- Drop penalty: −1 for each ball dropped en route (optional, announce upfront).
- Time trial: 6–8 minute clock; most in bowl when time ends wins.
- Spotter role: Allow one non‑blindfolded spotter per team to give verbal guidance only.
Safety tips
- Slow, careful steps—no running.
- Place a facilitator/spotter near each lane for safety and gentle guidance.
- Keep the floor dry and clutter‑free.
- Offer a no‑blindfold variant for anyone uncomfortable; let them act as spotter or scorekeeper.
Facilitator tips
- Prompt teams to decide strategy: few at a time (secure) vs. many (risky).
- Encourage clear, calm verbal guidance from teammates.
- Switch roles in later rounds so everyone experiences both tasks.
- Keep energy high—cheer progress and celebrate smart adjustments.
Debrief & discussion
- Which strategies moved the most cotton balls effectively?
- How critical was verbal guidance and encouragement?
- What trust/coordination challenges appeared?
- Parallels to handoffs and clarity at work?
- What habits from this round would help your team tomorrow?
Alternative/related activities
Ping‑Pong Spoon Relay
Blindfolded players balance ping‑pong balls on spoons. Focus: balance, patience, calm communication.
Water Cup Line
Teams pass water overhead with paper cups; last person pours into a bucket. Focus: coordination and clear handoffs.
Estimated time breakdown
| Activity part | Duration |
|---|---|
| Setup & instructions | 3–4 minutes |
| Relay race | 8–10 minutes |
| Debrief & discussion | 3–4 minutes |
Related training material packages
- Building High‑Performing Teams – teamwork, collaboration, cohesion. View package →
- Communicating with Clarity & Impact – clearer, faster alignment. View package →
- Creative Problem Solving & Decision Making – structure under time and pressure. View package →
Free assessment tools & quizzes
- Listening Style Quiz – tune attention and response. Take quiz →
- How Good a Listener Are You? – quick self‑check. Start self‑assessment →
- Explore more tools: Free self‑assessment library →
FAQ
Do players have to be blindfolded?
No. Use sighted play with a narrow lane or require eyes‑down. Offer spotter roles or alternate duties for anyone who opts out.
What distance works best?
7–8 feet keeps it manageable indoors. Adjust to room size and safety; longer distances increase difficulty.
How do we handle drops?
Either allow recovery with the spoon or apply a −1 penalty. Announce which rule you’ll use before starting.
How do we avoid ties?
Run a 60‑second playoff, set a bullseye zone at the bowl’s center, or add a carry‑cap tiebreaker.
Any accessibility adjustments?
Shorten distance, widen lanes, remove blindfolds, or assign guiding/scorekeeping roles. Keep paths clear and well lit.
Get started today
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