Tossing Names Around

Purpose. Reinforces name recall under light pressure and multitasking.

When to use. Right at the start of a session, once a first round of names has been introduced.

Best for. Any size, split into smaller groups if 30 or more, in person.

• Gather: 3 or more soft balls.
• Plan to start with just one ball, and add the others once the group is comfortable with the pattern.

Room setup. Arrange chairs (or ask people to stand) in a single circle so everyone can see each other.

Virtual setup. Not practical over video call; skip for remote sessions.

Hybrid setup. Not well suited to hybrid; run only when the full group is together in person.

Materials. 3+ soft balls

1. Ask everyone to stand in a circle. Do a quick round of introductions first if the group hasn't met yet.
2. Explain the format: you'll toss a soft ball to someone while saying their name (for example, “Here you go, Maria”). The person who catches it says a quick thanks using YOUR name (“Thanks, Sam”), then tosses it on to someone new the same way.
3. Start the first toss yourself.
4. Once the group has the basic pattern down, after a minute or two, add a second ball into the mix, tossed the same way.
5. If the group is handling two balls comfortably, add a third to raise the challenge further.

Learning outcome. Participants leave having practiced name recall while multitasking under light, friendly pressure.

• 3+ soft balls
• Timer set for 10 min
• Circle formation ready
• Plan for when to add each additional ball