The Best Game Leaders

The best game leaders introduce a game in a way that arouses interest and creates anticipation. They explain the game quickly and simply. Don't intellectualize a game; most questions are answered as kids play the game itself. You simply can't anticipate all possible game scenarios, so don't try to give a comprehensive explanation. Make sure everyone understands the basic point or purpose of the game; then get started. Your group wants to play, so detailed descriptions are futile. Describe in the fewest words possible what's to be done and what's to be avoided.

The best game leaders put students in their playing positions first and explain the game (without using the word game, which is a turnoff to teens); then let them play. For example, say, "Before we get started today, I want everyone on this side of the room to scoot one foot that way while our staff runs this rope between you." Ten minutes later, kids will be looking at each other saying, "Hey, we're playing games! Cool!"

The best game leaders encourage participation without forcing it. Some students think they are not good enough to play. They are afraid of ridicule and embarrassment. Some students may feel uncoordinated or unskilled. Allow students to observe as long as they're not disturbing those who are participating. Some students have had negative experiences playing games in the past, so be gentle with them but not patronizing.

The best game leaders give lots of points. Students play better when more points are given. Would you rather play a game where first place is 10 points or 100,000 points? You can give as many points as you want—points are free; they cost you nothing. You are not giving out dollar bills. Giving lots of points increases enjoyment, excitement and participation in the game. The best game leaders also keep the point spread close. Don't make first place 100,000 points; second place 10,000; third place 1,000; and fourth place 100. Kids will get too discouraged, and they'll think they are too far behind. Instead, make first place 100,000 points; second place 99,000; third place 98,000; and fourth place 97,000. So then even if you are in 10th place, you still have 91,000 points. Yahoo!

 The best game leaders let the students know in advance by advertising that they will need to dress for the mess if they will be playing messy games. If you don't, then only a few students will participate. Those inexpensive looking jeans cost $110; that cheap looking T-shirt cost $39; and those old looking sneakers cost $195. Teens do not want to have their favorite and expensive clothes wrecked. If they know in advance, then they will dress accordingly. Also, if you are playing messy games, have towels and changing rooms available for emergencies. It might be helpful to have a playing area covered with a tarp or drop cloth to protect floors. You may also want to have a cleanup crew handy that can wipe up spills immediately so no one slips and hurts him or herself.