The Big Tent

Name and Purpose

The Big Tent is a calming parachute activity that builds a shared sense of belonging.
Players practise timing, cooperation, and enjoying a quiet moment together under a shared space.

a.k.a.

Age / Group / Time / Space

Materials

Quick-Run Card

Setup and Boundaries

Lay the parachute flat in an open area with no obstacles nearby.
Signal: 1 short whistle = begin lifting; 2 whistles = lower and stop.
Check the floor for slippery patches or sharp objects before play.
Staff should be aware of campers who may find enclosed or low-light spaces uncomfortable.

How to Play

Everyone stands around the parachute and grabs the edge with both hands.
Staff calls ‘Mushroom!’ and the whole group lifts together in one smooth motion.
As the parachute billows, staff calls ‘Tent!’ Players step forward and sit on the edge, trapping the air inside.
Inside the tent: sing a camp song, share one thing that made you smile today, or simply enjoy the quiet.
When the tent starts to deflate, staff gives 2 whistles. Everyone lifts the edge to release air and lowers the parachute gently.
Repeat 2-3 times, changing the activity inside each time.

I-OPt Options Start:

Mid:

Late:

End:

Inclusion Adaptations

Players who prefer not to go inside the tent can hold the edge from outside the whole time. Their grip helps keep the seal and is a real contribution.
For players with sensory sensitivities to enclosed spaces or reduced light, the outside-holder role keeps them fully included. Staff can also partially lift one edge to let in more light and air if needed.
Players who use wheelchairs can hold the edge from their chair. If the group sits on the ground inside, a staff member can hold the edge open so the wheelchair user participates from a seated position at the boundary.

Stewardship Moment

After lowering the tent, ask: ‘What made it feel safe and comfortable inside? How do we create that feeling in everyday spaces?’
Fold the parachute together. Parachutes last for decades when stored clean and dry.

Consent

Pre-brief: ‘We’re going to make a giant tent together. For those not comfortable going inside, holding the edge from outside is just as important and keeps the tent up for everyone.’
Mid-game check: After the first tent, pause outside. ‘Thumbs up, sideways, or down. Ready for another round?’
Opt-out and re-entry: Anyone can step back from the edge at any time. Call ‘Ready!’ to rejoin.

Risks and Mitigation

Rushing to sit and bumping heads: Staff model a slow, deliberate step-in during the demo.
Overheating inside the tent: Keep inside time to 60-90 seconds. Watch for flushed faces.
Slipping on the parachute fabric: Players step on the edge section only, not onto the centre of the fabric.

Warm-Up Suggestions

‘Parachute Waves’: everyone ripples the parachute in a slow wave around the circle to get in sync.
‘Name Wave’: each player calls their name as the wave reaches them.

Debrief Questions

What? ‘What happened inside the tent? What did you notice?’
So What? ‘What made it feel like a safe space? What did the group do to make that happen?’
Now What? ‘How could you help create that same feeling of safety for someone in your cabin or group this week?’

Cleanup and Reset