Question Ball

Purpose

Question Ball turns a simple beach ball into a conversation tool. Questions are written on the ball's surface, and when someone catches it, they answer whichever question their thumb lands on. It randomises the check-in process, adds physical play, and takes the pressure off because "the ball chose the question."

At a glance

• Group size: 6–25
• Duration: 10 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Facilitation style: Facilitator-initiated, self-running
• Setting: In-person only

How to run

1. Prepare a beach ball with questions written in marker on each coloured panel.
2. Stand in a circle and toss the ball to someone.
3. The catcher looks at where their right thumb lands and reads/answers that question.
4. They toss the ball to someone else.
5. Continue for 8–12 rounds.

Materials needed

• An inflatable beach ball
• Permanent markers

Pitfalls & common mistakes

• Questions too personal: Keep them fun and light ("What's your go-to karaoke song?" not "What's your biggest regret?").
• Illegible writing: Write large and clearly in dark ink.
• Same questions repeatedly: Write enough questions to cover the whole ball.
• Ball deflates: Have a pump handy.

Inclusion & accessibility

• Seated participants can catch and throw from their chair.
• Use large, clear text for visually impaired participants.
• Allow someone to pass if they don't want to answer a question.
• Not suitable for virtual settings.

Variations

• Category ball: Each colour represents a category (work, personal, hypothetical).
• Number ball: Write numbers instead; map them to a separate question list.
• DIY ball: Let the group write the questions at the start of the session.

When NOT to use this

• In virtual settings.
• In very large groups (25+) where turns take too long.
• In sterile environments where inflatable toys are inappropriate.

Source & further reading

• A popular adaptation of catch-and-answer games used in youth work and education.
• Widely available as pre-printed "conversation ball" products.