Show and Tell Game: 50+ Ideas for Work & School
A nostalgic activity where participants share a meaningful object. Perfect for remote teams to build connection. Includes 50+ object ideas and examples.
How to Play This Icebreaker Game
How to Play: Interactive Guide
- 1Ahead of time, ask everyone to choose one object from their home or desk that has a special meaning.
- 2Each person takes a minute or two to 'show' the object on camera and 'tell' the story behind it.
- 3This is especially effective for remote teams to feel more connected.
Materials Needed
- One meaningful object per participant
Variations
- Theme Rounds: 'Show something that represents your 2024' or 'an object that saved your day this week'.
- Mystery Mode: Hold object behind your back, describe it first, then reveal for a guessing twist.
- Gallery Walk: For hybrid, create a shared slide deck where everyone uploads a photo beforehand.
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
Grab your object and be ready to share for 60–90 seconds: what it is, why it matters, and the story behind it.
Closing Script:
Thanks for sharing. Notice how metaphors surfaced values—capture a couple of themes we want to carry into today’s work.
Why This Works
Why this icebreaker game works: Personal artifacts let people choose their disclosure level and craft meaning through metaphor. This builds trust without oversharing.
Best For
Ideal icebreaker situations for this game include:
- Remote/hybrid teams
- Onboarding cohorts
- Culture-building workshops
Important Notes
- Invite optional participation and allow camera-off descriptions.
- Timebox shares to avoid fatigue.
- Avoid pressure to reveal private details.
Ideas & Prompts
More QuestionsWork & Desk
Personal & Hobbies
Travel & Memories
Game FAQ
What if someone forgets to bring an object?
Let them describe something from memory or grab anything nearby—the story matters more than the object.
How do we keep it moving with large groups?
Breakout rooms of 4–5, then each room shares one highlight to the full group.
