This Tip describes my trainer’s toolkit of resources for the tables, the walls, and other tools, such as music and materials for activities.
“What we learn with pleasure we never forget.” Alfred Mercier
I was just bemoaning the fact that my wall kites are gathering dust as training has become virtual during the pandemic. That got me thinking about everything I like to have available when I do in-person training. It feels very sterile simply sitting at my computer with circle lights, my PowerPoint slides, possibly music, and nothing more. I miss the color and energy of in-person training (but not the hours of travel, set up, and tear down!)
A Trainer’s Toolkit of Resources
For the tables:
1.Classic Koosh balls: for introductory and closing activities, fidgets, games, and energizers.
2.Pipe cleaners: for the tactile creatives
3.Large foam dice: for games
4.Spiral 8” glitter wands: as pretty tactile fidgets
5.Star-shaped squeeze fidget toys: colorful and good for carpal tunnel exercising
6.Small post-it notes: for note-taking
7.Tiny tab notes: for marking key pages in the participant workbook
8.Colorful 3”x5” index cards: for note-taking and for games
9.Table tent name cards: for identification
More Materials for the Tables
10.Sketch fragrant flip chart markers: for writing on table tents and flip charts
11.Star stickers: for gallery walk to identify preferred learning objectives written on flip charts
12.Long envelopes: for pass the envelope games
13.Colored construction paper: three pieces per table to add color
14.Pads of lined paper: for note-taking
15.Candy bowls: to hold the candy
16.Wrapped sugar and sugar-free candies: as a welcome treat
17.A small toy, like a spring or twirling top: a tangible representation of the metaphor for the class
18.Prizes: plastic puzzles, bendables, rubber ducks, etc.
For the walls:
- Self-sticking flip chart paper: for ease of posting trainer and participant writing
- Masking tape: to supplement the flip chart attachment to the wall and to mark off games
- Artist putty: to put up kites, agenda map, and peripherals
- Kites: to provide color
- Quotes on colored paper: to reinforce the content
- T-pins and pushpins: may be more effective than masking tape or putty on certain wall types
- Agenda map: a visual representation of workshop content on a large sheet of paper
Other tools:
- Music: to play at the beginning, during breaks, during work activities, and at the end of the session
- 3-tone chime: to gain the group’s attention and save voice
- Workshop-specific materials: e.g. board games, Tinker toys, cardboard, popsicle sticks, modeling clay, spools, balsa wood rectangles, and seed packets, etc.
May your learning be sweet- and safe.
Deborah
#learningtools #trainertoolbox
