Three Changes

Name and Purpose

• Three Changes is an observation and attention game that builds focus, memory, and playful noticing.
• Players practise paying close attention to details and working together to spot differences.

a.k.a.

• Spot the Difference, What Changed?, Observations

Age / Group / Time / Space

• Ages 8-16 | 8-30 players | 10-20 minutes | Any gathered space with a nearby hidden area

Materials

• None required
• Optional: a screen, curtain, or large towel for the changer to step behind

Quick-Run Card

1. One player stands in front of the group and slowly turns so everyone can observe them for 30 seconds.
2. That player steps behind a screen or wall and changes three things about their appearance.
3. They return to the group. The group works together to spot all three changes.
4. Once all three are found, a new player takes a turn.
5. Variation: pairs sit facing each other and take turns changing one thing while the other closes their eyes.

Setup and Boundaries

• Identify a spot where the changer can step out of sight (behind a wall, tree, curtain, or held-up towel)
• Signal: staff clap = attention; raised hand = gather
• Ensure the observation area is well-lit so details are visible

How to Play

1. Ask for a volunteer (or staff goes first to model). The volunteer stands where everyone can see them.
2. The group observes the volunteer for about 30 seconds. The volunteer turns slowly so everyone can see from all angles.
3. The volunteer steps behind the screen/wall and changes three things about their appearance (e.g., watch on a different wrist, sleeves rolled up, hair parted differently, shoes swapped).
4. The volunteer returns. The group calls out guesses together. Staff can moderate by calling on raised hands if needed.
5. Once all three changes are found, celebrate and choose the next volunteer.
6. Play 3-5 rounds depending on time and energy.
7. Pairs Variation (Observations): Each person finds a partner and sits facing them. In round one, Player A observes Player B for one minute. Player B then changes one thing while Player A closes their eyes. Player A guesses. Switch roles. Add more changes each round to increase the challenge.

I-OPt Options

• A (Active): Volunteer to be the changer, call out guesses enthusiastically
• S (Support): Help the changer think of creative changes, encourage quieter guessers
• Q (Quiet): Observe carefully and share guesses when ready, or whisper guesses to a neighbour
• O (Observer): Watch and enjoy. Join in guessing or volunteering when comfortable

Inclusion Adaptations

• Seated players can participate fully. Changes can involve accessories, hair, posture, or anything visible from a seated position.
• For players who may feel uncomfortable being observed by the whole group, the pairs variation offers a lower-pressure alternative

Stewardship Moment

• “No materials needed. We used only our eyes and our attention. Good observation skills help us notice things in nature too.”

Consent

• Pre-brief: “This game involves standing in front of the group while people observe you, then stepping away to change three things. For those not comfortable being in front of the whole group, the pairs version is another great option. No one has to volunteer.”
• Mid-game check: After 2-3 rounds, check in. “How is everyone feeling? Want to keep going or switch to pairs?”
• Opt-out/re-entry: No one is required to volunteer as the changer. Observers can join guessing at any time.

Risks and Mitigation

• Players commenting on someone’s body or appearance in an unkind way: set the ground rule that guesses are about what CHANGED, not judgements about how someone looks
• The changer struggling to think of three changes: staff can quietly suggest ideas (swap a bracelet, untuck a shirt, change which pocket holds an item)
• One player always volunteering while others never do: after a few rounds, try the pairs variation so everyone participates equally

Warm-Up Suggestions

• “Look and look away”: pairs look at each other for 10 seconds, look away, and try to describe what the other person is wearing
• “Snapshot memory”: staff holds up 5 random objects on a tray for 15 seconds, then covers them. Group tries to list all 5.

Debrief Questions

• What? “What details were hardest to notice? What made some changes easier to spot?”
• So What? “What does this game tell us about how much we really notice about the people around us?”
• Now What? “How could paying closer attention to details help you in your daily life?”

Cleanup and Reset

• No materials to collect
• If a screen or curtain was used, fold and return it