Teams compete to build the tallest freestanding tower using only balloons and tape within a time limit.
Balloons, tape, scissors
Divide players into teams of 3-6 people.
Give each team an equal supply of balloons (10-20), a roll of tape, and scissors.
Set a time limit (15-20 minutes).
Teams must build the tallest freestanding tower using only the provided materials.
The tower must stand on its own for at least 10 seconds when time is called.
Measure the towers — the tallest freestanding tower wins!
Have extra balloons available — they pop!
Consider offering a "bonus challenge" like the tower must support a small object on top.
After the activity, debrief: How did your team decide on a strategy? Who took what role?
Spaghetti Tower: Use dry spaghetti noodles and marshmallows instead.
Paper Tower: Use only newspaper and tape.
No Tape: Use only balloons — static electricity and friction only.
Players stand in a circle, reach across to grab two different people's hands, then work together to untangle the "knot" without letting go.
One team member views a hidden Lego structure and must describe it to their team so they can replicate it — without seeing it.
One blindfolded player must traverse an "obstacle course" guided only by their partner's verbal instructions.