A unique way to add challenge to a teambuilding activity, is removing the ability to speak. Not only does it help kids develop problem solving skills, but it’s a great way to unearth empathy for their peers with disabilities or limited English language capabilities. For these students, everyday, their communication may be isolated to unconventional phrasing, body language, or written word. When common language is removed, participants must pay closer attention to each other’s actions and intentions, leading to a deeper connection and appreciation for diversity. By experiencing teamwork activities that simulate this interaction, students may be better prepared to use their life skills and problem solve when they come across these challenges in day-to-day life.
It’s not uncommon though for students to encounter this language barrier inside school walls. One of the middle schools we work with has a high number of international students with close to 50 languages spoken. In one of our small team-building groups, there were several Spanish speakers, a French speaker, a student who is hard of hearing, and a few English speakers. In silence, they performed their task much more quickly than a typical group. Why? Because of the high density of kids who experience this hurdle on a daily basis: communicating with others when words aren’t an option. 
Once they finished (much quicker than we anticipated), there was a happy celebration with smiles and fist bumps. Truly grasping the significance of their success, the pride on their faces was priceless. The English speakers were able to articulate how impressive it was that they were able to come together even though they weren’t able to communicate with words. This was more of a shocking outcome to them than to the non-english speaking students, who often have to work harder to get the same point across on a regular basis.
While this teambuilding challenge is made for those who typically do not have communication barriers, all reap the benefits; English speaking students build an empathetic worldview, and non-English speakers & students with communication disabilities gain an ally. This silent teamwork experience became a valuable lesson in inclusivity and cooperation. It served as a reminder that, regardless of our differences, we can achieve remarkable things when we strive to understand and support one another.
If you’re interested in supporting local youth like these by helping them develop key life skills, consider getting plugged in with Camptown! Through donations, volunteer opportunities, or event attendance, there are tons of ways to get involved and help create transformative experiences for the students we serve. Give us a call at 317-471-8277, email us at info@camptown.org, or check out the “get involved” page on our website for more information and to sign up.