There are a lot of corporate stiffs out there.
They scoff at attending training programs, and show up daring the workshop facilitator to teach them something.
So, when I facilitate workshops, I show up with toys.
The stiffs don’t like it. At first.
But usually somewhere around 45 minutes into the session, they get hooked. Then, they can’t be stopped. They’re on a creative mission to bring artistic life to that Silly Putty, or bendy-guy figure.
For which I say, “Halleluiah!”
Toys + Space to Create = Potential Learning
We’ve broken through the meeting rigor mortis.
And their brains are being opened up to learning.
Which is the whole point of bringing toys to an adult learning session.
Do you ever lead workshops – or even lengthy meetings? Bring toys! Here’s why you should have toys at your next meeting and tips for what to bring.
John,
Yes, the toys serve a similar function to doodling as you describe it. Some people are kinesthetic learners and the movement of manipulating a small “fiddle” toy in their hands can help them focus. I also have found that people use the toys to “create” something (as in the photo) which helps open up their creativity.