Have You Ever?

Name and Purpose

Have You Ever? is a high-energy circle mixer that reveals surprising things players have in common.
Players practise quick listening, decision-making, and discovering connections with their group.

a.k.a.

Age / Group / Time / Space

Ages 8-16 | 10-40 players | 10-20 minutes | Large circle in a gym or on a field; enough room to move safely

Materials

Chairs or personal place markers (backpacks, cones, folded towels) — one per player, minus one
Optional: cones to mark the outer circle edge for larger groups

Quick-Run Card

Set up a circle of markers with one fewer than the number of players.
One volunteer starts in the centre without a marker.
Caller says: “Have you ever [something true about me]?” (e.g., “Have you ever been camping in the rain?”)
Anyone who can say yes moves to a new marker at least two spots away. The caller also moves for a spot.
The player left without a marker becomes the next caller.

Setup and Boundaries

How to Play

Everyone finds a marker in the circle. One volunteer steps to the centre.
Centre player says: “Have you ever [something that is true about me]?”
Everyone who answers yes stands, moves across the circle, and claims a new marker at least two spots from their starting point.
The centre player also moves for any open spot.
The player left without a marker is now the caller.
Play continues for as many rounds as the group is enjoying it. End with applause.

I-OPt Options

A (Active): Move quickly; think of creative and surprising statements when in the centre
S (Support): Cheer the caller; help players who look uncertain find an open spot
Q (Quiet): Move calmly; choose a low-key statement when in the centre
O (Observer): Sit at the edge of the circle for a round, then step in when ready

Inclusion Adaptations

Walk-only movement rule applies to everyone, levelling the pace for all players
Players who prefer not to be in the centre can pass and ask a willing volunteer to take their turn

Stewardship Moment

Use existing backpacks or water bottles as markers so nothing new is needed
Reflection: “We just found a lot of things we have in common. What surprised you the most?”

Consent

Pre-brief: “In this game you move around the circle and occasionally end up in the centre to share something about yourself. For those not comfortable being in the centre, swapping with a volunteer is always fine.”
Mid-game check: After 5-6 rounds, pause. “Thumbs up, sideways, or down — how is everyone feeling?”
Opt-out/re-entry: Any player can sit at the edge of the circle for a round. They re-enter by claiming an open spot at the start of the next round.

Risks and Mitigation

Collisions when many players cross at once: walk-only rule; staff models it at the start
Caller stuck in the centre for multiple rounds (others not relating to their statements): coach callers to choose broad, relatable topics; offer a prompt card with starter ideas
A sensitive statement accidentally made: coach participants ahead of time to keep statements fun and light

Warm-Up Suggestions

“Quick Lap”: everyone walks a slow lap around the outside of the circle, greeting each person they pass
“Name and One Word”: each person says their name and one word for how they are feeling right now

Debrief Questions

What? “What was a statement that surprised you — either because you shared it or because someone else did?”
So What? “What does it feel like when you realise you have something in common with someone you did not know?”
Now What? “How could you use what you learned today to build a stronger connection with someone in this group?”

Cleanup and Reset