Summary: In this game, some players will become human obstacles while the rest of the group will be split into pairs to navigate the “blizzard.” Emphasize the importance of teamwork in overcoming challenges.

Materials:

• Blindfolds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Explain that the space will be transformed into an obstacle course that players will need to navigate. Ask for 4-6 players to be the “obstacles,” and then place them strategically around the room to create the course. Obstacles may include:
   1. Stepping over a volunteer (a frozen log)
   2. Crawling under a table or stepping through a hoop (an ice cave)
   3. Walking between two people who are standing close together (a canyon)
   4. Avoiding a person pacing back and forth (a snow plow)
   5. Stopping at a station to complete a task (like singing “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer”)
2. Have the remaining players pair up. Explain that there has been a huge blizzard in the room. One player in each pair can see through the blizzard, but the other player in each pair has become blind. Give the pairs a minute to decide which player will play each role.
3. Have each pair line up at the beginning of the course. When the game begins, each pair must navigate their way through “the blizzard.” The players who can see must lead the blind players through both the blizzard and obstacles safely.
   1. Depending on the age group, you may allow the guides to lead their partners by touching them lightly on the shoulders or to instruct them to using only verbal instructions.
   2. Send pairs through at staggered intervals so players do not bump into each other. Remind the guides to watch not only their partners but other groups as well.
4. The game ends when each pair has successfully completed the course.

Variations:

• Have the entire group direct one player through the blizzard. Choose a player to be blindfolded and help them to the starting line. Have another player be the “spotter” to make sure the blindfolded player stays safe. The spotter is not allowed to give directions. Directions and help may only come from the group, who are standing on the perimeter of the obstacle course. Start by letting anyone give directions. When this becomes too chaotic, freeze the game and have the blindfolded player explain what was easy/hard about following the directions.

Debrief Questions:

• For each role, what was easy and what was difficult?
• Which role would you rather play?
• What does it mean to “trust” someone else? If you were blindfolded, did you trust your partner?
• Other than this game, what are some other things you can’t do alone?

Activity Length: Medium (15-30 minutes)

Energy Level: Medium

Grade Level: 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th & Up

Group Size: Large (10+), Medium (5-9)