5 Icebreaker Activities for Kids to Get Acquainted

Summer camp tops most kids’ dream list, but those first-day nerves can make even excited campers anxious. Looking for proven icebreaker activities for kids that spark natural connections? These games turn strangers into friends fast:

A group of kids talking and engaging in an icebreaker activity, helping them get to know each other in a fun and relaxed way.

Two Truths and a Lie

This classic icebreaker never fails. Have campers sit in a circle and share three statements about themselves – two true facts and one crafty lie.

The real fun starts when everyone plays detective! According to child development experts at PBS Parents, games that encourage story sharing help kids connect naturally. From celebrity encounters to wild adventures, you’ll hear some amazing tales that kick-start conversations.

Turn the Tarp

Get ready for laughs! Give each group an unset tent and challenge them to flip it over – while everyone stays on top! The twist? No stepping off the tarp. This works best with 5-8 kids per tent, based on age. Pick medium-sized tents – too big gets boring, too small gets crazy! First team to flip wins, but watching kids work together and laugh trying is the real prize.

Would you Rather

Kids love gross stuff and silly scenarios – roll with it! Throw out wild choices like eating a dirty sock versus doing an embarrassing dance. Level up by having kids move to different corners based on their picks. The jokes and chats that follow melt away awkwardness. Since most kids know this party favorite, they jump right in.

A lively group of children laughing and playing an interactive icebreaker game, designed to help kids feel comfortable and make new friends.

Hoop Relay

Time for teamwork! Form equal-sized lines (bigger is better), link hands, and give the first person a hula hoop. Here’s the challenge – pass that hoop from start to finish without breaking the chain. Sounds easy until you try! This active game gets everyone moving, laughing, and problem-solving together. For big groups, start here before splitting into smaller activities.

Minecraft Team Build

At tech camps where computers come standard, Minecraft rocks for group bonding between coding sessions. Host a LAN game where campers build together or team up in survival mode. Nothing builds friendship like fighting off creepers or hunting for diamonds! Run contests for coolest builds or tackle one massive project as a team.

A group of kids working together as a team, participating in fun icebreaker activities for kids that encourage collaboration and friendship.

Cooperation Brings Friendship

Games that require team cooperation, or games that require interaction and understanding everyone better are great to build friendships. The best of all is that it takes away the nerve-wracking feeling of making new friends and makes the process fun, engaging and natural! Sound like fun? Learn more about camps for every occasion at Engineering For Kids by finding your closest location.

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