Conversation Catch

Get residents moving and thinking with this simple activity. You can switch out the questions written on the ball every time to meet a certain theme or goal.

Objective:

• Encourage physical activity
• Stimulate cognitive function
• Foster social interaction  

Materials Needed:

• Beach ball with colorful sections
• Sharpie or Stickers or Paper and tape (for questions)

Preparation:

Come up with 6 questions. For example, "Where are you from" and "What is your favorite food". This will get the conversation going. Affix your questions to the beach ball.

Instructions:

Play background music if desired. Residents sit in a circle and toss the ball to each other. The catcher answers the question closest to their right hand. Others can share related memories. Keep going until everyone has a chance to answer at least one question.

Sample Questions 

Getting to know

• Where did you grow up?
• What is your favorite food?
• Do you have siblings? How many?
• Which book or movie do you love the most?
• How did you meet your spouse or best friend?
• Have you ever traveled abroad? Where?

Childhood Reminiscing 

• What was your favorite subject in school?
• Who was your best friend in elementary school?
• What is your favorite family tradition from your childhood?
• Did you have a favorite toy or item you always carried with you?
• What significant historical event do you remember from your youth?
• What was a proud moment from your childhood?

Other Conversation Starters

• What did you do for fun in your teens?
• What was your first paid job?
• If you could go back to any year, when would it be?
• What invention in your life are you most amazed at?
• What advice would you like to pass on to me?
• Did you have a nickname growing up?
• What were your hobbies as you grew up?
• What would make your life easier?
• What do you remember about your grandparents?
• Do you have any hidden talents?