Grief Musical Chairs
Suggested Group(s): Young/Middle
Purpose: To create an environment of safety and familiarity and become more aware of group members and their stories
Task/need: Group Building, acknowledging the reality of the loss
Activity Setup Ideas:
- Explain that often we have questions that we don’t talk about outside of the Highmark Caring Place and that this game gives us the chance to ask those questions in a safe place
- Review the "I-pass" rule
- Review the rules of this game
Materials:
- Chairs
- Music
Description: Grief Musical Chairs is played the same as regular musical chairs. The chairs are placed in a row side by side with some facing forward and some facing backward. The amount of chairs placed is one less than the number of group members. The group members walk in circles around the chairs while the music is playing. When the music stops, all members must try to get a seat. One person will be without a seat and is able to ask another group member a question about himself, herself, or the person who died or can share something about themselves if they choose.
Activity Wrap Up Ideas:
- Point out some similarities in what was shared
- Thank the group for sharing
Suggestions: If the group is unable to formulate their own questions, it may be helpful to have them choose from a basket of existing questions.
