I’m Going on a Picnic

Name and Purpose

• I’m Going on a Picnic is a classic memory and creativity game that helps players learn names and practise active listening.
• Players build a collaborative list, exercising memory and imagination.

a.k.a.

• Alphabet Picnic, Memory Chain

Age / Group / Time / Space

• Ages 8-16 | 5-25 players | 10-15 minutes | Any space where the group can sit or stand in a circle

Materials

• None

Quick-Run Card

1. Players sit or stand in a circle.
2. First player says: “I’m going on a picnic and I’m bringing…” plus an item starting with A.
3. Next player repeats the sentence and all previous items, then adds a B item.
4. Continue through the alphabet. The group helps anyone who gets stuck.
5. Variation: each player brings something starting with the first letter of their name.

Setup and Boundaries

• Arrange the group in a circle (seated or standing)
• Signal: facilitator starts the game and manages pacing
• No setup time needed

How to Play

1. The group sits or stands in a circle.
2. The first player says: “I’m going on a picnic and I’m bringing…” and names an item starting with the letter A (e.g., “apples”).
3. The next player repeats the full sentence including all previous items, then adds an item starting with B.
4. Play continues around the circle, each player reciting the growing list and adding the next letter.
5. If someone gets stuck, the group helps. This is collaborative, not a test.
6. Tongue-twister variation: each item is an alliterative phrase (e.g., “Aunt Annie’s absolutely awesome apples”).
7. Name-game variation: each player brings something starting with the first letter of their own name. Great for learning names.

I-OPt Options

• A (Active): Full participation, adding items and reciting the list
• S (Support): Help whisper reminders to the current player if they forget an item
• Q (Quiet): Participate but use a “phone a friend” option (point to someone to help recite)
• O (Observer): Listen and follow along, join in when comfortable

Inclusion Adaptations

• Written version: a notepad travels around the circle; each player writes their item for visual support
• Pass option: any player can say “I’m passing the picnic basket” and the next player continues

Stewardship Moment

• “No supplies needed for this one. Our brains and creativity are all we need.”
• If outdoors: quick check of the circle area before leaving

Consent

• Pre-brief: “This game is about building a silly list together. There’s no wrong answer. If you get stuck, the group will help. You can also pass and come back to your turn.”
• For those not comfortable with any part of this activity, sitting out or joining as an observer is another option.
• Mid-game check: “How’s everyone doing? Want to keep going or try the name version?”
• Opt-out/re-entry: Say “Pass the basket” to skip. Jump in on any later round.

Risks and Mitigation

• Memory pressure: frame as collaborative, not competitive. Group always helps.
• Feeling put on the spot: normalise passing and whispering help
• Long lists become overwhelming: for younger groups, play to the letter matching the number of players, not the whole alphabet

Warm-Up Suggestions

• Quick round: “Say your name and your favourite snack” to get voices warmed up
• “Chain Clap”: clap around the circle in rhythm to practise turn-taking

Debrief Questions

• What? “How far did we get? What items were the funniest?”
• So What? “What tricks did you use to remember the list?”
• Now What? “When is it helpful to really listen and remember what others have said?”

Cleanup and Reset

• No materials to collect
• Reset circle for next activity