Labyrinth

Labyrinth

Labyrinth is an activity that can be used in most group settings with participants as young as 8 years old. Participants any younger may struggle with the fine motor skills needed to be successful, however, the materials could probably be adjusted. This activity is best suited to psychoeducational groups but can be used in most types of groups. 

The object of Labyrinth is to teach, enhance and strengthen the psychosocial functioning of the group’s participants. The term psychosocial refers to the feelings, attitudes, and behaviors of individuals in their relationships with others (Garvin, Gutierrez, & Galinsky, 2006).  Psychosocial functioning can be enhanced through both prevention and treatment as evidenced with the success of psychoeducational groups in many areas including substance abuse and the prevention of teen pregnancy.  

Labyrinth helps group participants to develop and model skills such as problem solving, cooperation and communication between participants. Throughout the course of the activity the group facilitator has the opportunity to observe the group dynamics and learn more about the personalities of each of the participants.

The School Social Work Model aims to improve academic and behavioral outcomes. This activity fits into the model both in the area of providing evidence based behavior services and promoting a school climate and culture conducive to student learning.

Reference

Garvin, C. D., Gutierrez, L. M., & Galinsky, M. J. (2006). Handbook of Social Work with Groups. New York, NY: Guilford Press.

Materials needed:

• Tube-like structures (can be made from PVC pipe or metal reinforcers) 8 to 10 inches in length; one for each participant
• Small ping-pong ball or marble
• Chairs, desks or other structures to create obstacle course
• Basket

Object of the game:

Participants work together to get the ball/marble from the beginning point into the basket without it dropping or touching anyone’s hands.

Rules:

• Everyone must carry the ball at least once
•  The person holding the ball cannot walk
• If the ball falls, you must start over at the beginning
• If someone has the ball in their hands, you have to start over at the beginning
•  Tubes must be held at the bottom (fingers and hands cannot be used to hold the ball in the tube)
•  If there are any hurtful or negative comments, you must start over at the beginning

Variations:

• After the group has mastered moving the ball in a straight line, create an obstacle course
• Have the participants complete the game in silence
• Use two balls
• In large groups of 8 or more, have 2 teams and have them compete 
• In areas where mobility might be limited, have participants pass the ball/marble around a table while sitting