Spider Web
Spider Web: Lifting Up People Who Provide Support is a 30-minute activity that serves as a metaphor for the support that people provide for each other. Participants stand in a circle with the facilitator. The facilitator gives the ball of yarn or string to one participant and asks them to name one person in their life that supports them and what that person does to support them. Then they throw it to another participant while holding onto the end of the yarn. The process continues until everyone has shared. When the yarn runs out, the facilitator asks participants to look at the web they’ve created and think about how people are connected to one another.
Planning and Preparation: is a 30-minute activity that can be done with 8-15 participants; if you have more, consider splitting into smaller groups. You’ll need a ball of yarn or string, a beach ball or balloon, and scissors. Works best in an open area with enough space to form a circle.
Developmental Relationship Element: Provide Support.
CASEL Competencies: listening, communication, self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills.
Objective: Build and strengthen relationships among participants and between participants and leaders. Deepen understanding of Provide Support in Search Institute’s developmental relationships framework.
Activity
Spider Web
Resource Audience
Resource Type
Read Time
Participants
# of Participants
Task Group Size
Task Length
More Activities to Build Strong Relationships in Your Classroom or Group

Activity
So You Think You Can Listen?
A relationship-building activity where participants take turns sharing about themselves and sharing positive words about the person who shares.

Resources
Communication Style (E2E)
Understand the 4 types of communication style and how they affect educator relationships.

Activity
Skit and Debrief
Student Voice, Skit and Debrief
Related Resources on Relational Practices

Video
State of Developmental Relationships Webinar
State of Developmental Relationships Webinar: A Call to Action to Ensure All Young People Thrive (Nov. 17, 2021) lead by Ben Houltberg and Amy Syvertsen

Activity
Understanding Student Behavior Survey
Understanding Student Behavior Survey

Resources
Random Acts of Kindness (E2E)
Cultivate happiness in yourself and other educators.