Children’s Team-Building Activities

Best Children’s Team-Building Activities – As Suggested by the Experts

Since the launch of MomoandMe in January, I wanted to write about the team building activities for children. As a newbie blogger, I’ve been amazed by all the top ten’s lists and was nowhere close to choosing the best ones. That’s the reason we asked the experts to reveal the most effective children’s team-building activities. Read on to discover each expert’s favorite children’s team-building activities along with their awesome benefits!

Patti Wood is a BA and MA certified professional in Body Language and Nonverbal Communication. Her programs include body language, presentation skills, sales, and media interviewing. “Patti Wood is the Babe Ruth of body language experts, the gold standard of body language experts, and the capo di tutti capi of body language experts.” – The Washington Post. As per Patti, research indicated that children who show their emotions clearly and can decode the emotions from others peoples facial expression are the most popular and tend to have higher grades.

Facial Recognition Team Building Exercise – Have the children sit in a circle and take turns having the rest of the group guess what their facial expression means. Another way to use facial expression cards or photos. Arrange these facial expression cards online and put them up and have the children work on guessing the right feeling in small groups and then go through the facial expressions of the whole group to check who got the correct answers while the teacher breakdowns the features that create each emotion.

You can connect with her on Youtube, Blogspot,and her Website.

Link to actual article:  http://momoandme.com/childrens-team-building-activities/

Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at www.PattiWood.net. Check out Patti's website for her new book "SNAP, Making the Most of First Impressions, Body Language and Charisma" at www.snapfirstimpressions.com. Also check out Patti's YouTube channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.

Seating Positions - Where You Sit Can Change Your Power and Status

Seating Positions - Where You Sit Can Change Your

Power and Status

Where did you sit at the family dinner table? Where did you sit in the car with your family? Did you argue with your siblings? Were you the peacemaker? It makes sense that your communication ability would be effected by the way you interacted in your first 18 years. Participants in my training workshops are often stunned by the effect of their seating positions on their office interactions. Here are some insights.

A friend asked me recently about where we sit as a family when we’re around the dinner table. She was keen to know whether we had fixed seats and, if so, what dynamic this engendered between different family members, particularly our three children.

I thought about it for a while and realised that, yes, we all occupied the same position each night: my partner and I at opposite ends, and the kids along the middle. To her question about dynamics, I guess our arrangement was, in some way, reinforcing a particular pattern of behaviour. Certainly, when it came to eye contact, we were all seeing each other from the same angle, each night.

We’ve since updated our approach and now try to sit in different spots on some evenings. It’s the right move because, although familiarity is crucial for a family unit (particularly when children are very young), it’s more important as they get older to be flexible. To encourage different situations that challenge them emotionally and stimulate their sense of adventure.

Interaction between siblings is a fascinating business to observe for any parent, not just those of us who are also psychologists. And there was, I thought, no better place to watch this phenomenon unfold than around the dinner table.

That was until I started working with Škoda to promote its family model, the Octavia. New research has been released today about the impact of different car positions and how they impact children in later life.

As many families hit the roads this bank holiday weekend, parents will be confronted with the age-old dilemma of how to keep their brood occupied and behaving on long journeys. For those with more than two offspring, there’s also the added issue of who sits where.

Similar to the dinner table conundrum, careful selection is required. Car booster chairs may mean that one window seat is immediately taken by the youngest child, and a history of travel sickness or a headstrong eldest sibling may take care of the other. But what becomes of the “unfortunate” individual that ends up in the middle? Are they destined for a life of always having to compromise?

Not so, according to the research. These young folk should count themselves lucky for being a middle seat kid. In fact, in the survey of over 1,000 people (now grown up) with two siblings or more, 90% of those at a director level position at work sat in the middle on family car journeys. Even more tellingly, four fifths of these respondents believe that sitting between brothers and sisters directly contributed to their professional success.*

The reality of these numbers really strikes home for me, as I can see the requisite characteristics for business achievement emerging in my own children. You see, we now not only rotate our dining positions, but our motoring ones too. They take turns in different formations in the back of the car.

Why? Because I believe it will make them more accommodating of other people, more in tune with others’ wants and needs and, ultimately, it will give them a heightened level of emotional intelligence. This belief has now been ratified through the research, as middle seat kids are shown to be reasonable, patient, level-headed and adaptable.

Of course, there’s an argument that successful business people need to be self-centred, driven and unwavering in the pursuit of achieving their goals. But we’ve all worked with people who possessed these traits, yet were unable to get the best out of the people that worked beneath them. True success is about choosing a destination and taking your colleagues with you on the journey to get there.

My advice is to keep mixing things up – rotate, as we do, the positions the kids occupy. Those in window seats may get caught up in the outside world, but the one between them will be all ears for conversation. Encourage this however you can. Ask questions, play games, tell jokes. Trust me, you’ll reap the rewards and, further down the line, they will too.

Actual link to article:

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/features/where-children-sit-affects-their-personality-and-success-later-in-life-10217964.html

Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at www.PattiWood.net. Check out Patti's website for her new book "SNAP, Making the Most of First Impressions, Body Language and Charisma" at www.snapfirstimpressions.com. Also check out Patti's YouTube channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.

This Is What Your Sleep Position Says About You

by Hallie Gould

Just like your dreams, your sleep position is often subconscious. As such, the way you’re most comfortable sleeping tells a lot about your personality. Do you love to spread out? Curl up? Do you sleep differently each night? It all has a hidden meaning. To uncover the explanations, I tapped body language expert Patti Wood and she described very different, very specific character traits for each. What’s more, your sleep position also corresponds with your DiSC, a personality assessment tool that centers on four different behavioral traits: dominance, influence, steadiness, and compliance. We chatted about those too.
Intrigued? Keep scrolling to find out what your sleep position really means.

1 / 9

If you fall asleep lying on your side, you’re in the company of 15% of sleepers, according to a 2003 study by Professor Chris Idzikowski. You’re not curled up or stiff limbed, but rather relaxed and stretched out.
Wood explains, “You are calm, peaceful and steady, not aggressive. Spaghetti Noodle sleepers are easygoing and do what is expected of them. You want to be liked and part of the group. Some research says those who sleep on their side with their right arm stretched over their head are said to be blessed with power and fortune.”
On the DiSC, your sleep style is known as the Get Along personality—you are warm, friendly, and like a relaxed pace. You’re loyal and supportive, and the most important thing in your life is your relationships. With others, you often avoid conflict and make personal sacrifices to do so. As such, you’re a good listener, but sometimes you can feel interrupted. You’re the person who always remembers someone’s birthday and offers a shoulder to cry on.

2 / 9

Idzikowski reports 51% of women like to climb into bed and get into the fetal position. You fall asleep best curled up on your side. Wood says, “The symbolism is that of a baby in the womb—so people that sleep in this position are innocent and often unaffected. If you like to hug a pillow, you need a lot of love and support, as you are sensitive and trusting. You tend to see things through rose-colored glasses, perhaps a bit idealistic but friendly and social. You may subconsciously long for what you had in the womb: security, warmth, and intimacy. But, if your position is tightly curled up, it may show a small degree of insecurity. If you’ve never slept like this before and have suddenly adopted the position, it’s probably because of stress or feelings of inadequacy.
On the DiSC, the fetal position also lends itself to the Get Along personality (see above). A good day for you is one where everyone gets along and you’ve helped others.

3 / 9

About 13% of sleepers find themselves in this position—sleeping on one side with both arms out in front. Wood asserts: “You are said to have an open nature but can be cynical. You’re not quick to make up your mind, but once you have made a decision, you stick with it.”
You have the Get It Right personality style on the DiSC, which means you’re smart, careful, and accurate. You’re a deep thinker, and as such, you carefully consider things before you talk about them. People consider you a serious person, as you’re detailed, precise, and catch mistakes others often miss.

4 / 9

You like to lie face down when trying to fall asleep. Wood explains, "You are serious and stubborn. You hold strong beliefs and like to have everything done your way. You are super focused and love to get things done right. If you find yourself clenching your fists as you sleep, you may be grappling with aggression that you have yet to deal with.”
The Crab sleep position lends itself to the Get It Done personality style, which means your lifestyle is most likely fast-paced and you’re always on the go. You’re a great multitasker—you think there’s no reason to do just one thing when you can do four. You solve problems quickly, as you’re decisive and love to take charge and meet challenges.

5 / 9

You like to sleep with your hands on top of your head, or your arms crossed to support your head and neck. “You listen carefully so you can acquire wisdom, and you give really helpful advice,” says Wood. She adds, “The Crown sleeper is highly intelligent and enthusiastic, but you should make sure your ideas are helpful for others as well as yourself.”

6 / 9

You tend to sleep on your back, face up with your legs open and your arms spread out wide. Wood suggests, “You’re optimistic and you love freedom and attention—you’re very comfortable being the star and taking over the room. This is the position of an extremely confident person: You’re open, self-assured, and ready to hug the world. Holding your body this way shows you have a great sense of well-being, but you’re not particularly keen on planning.”
Star sleepers also identify as Get Appreciated on the DiSC scale. You’re a leader, an influencer, and you want to be noticed and appreciated for your ideas. You’re spontaneous and you live life to the fullest. You don't like to waste your time or energy on boring details. You are boisterous, imaginative, and playful—so you’re amazing at telling stories. Your enthusiasm is contagious and you get the party going, no matter what.

7 / 9

You, like 43% of those in the U.S. and 8% of those in the U.K., love to sleep on your back with both arms at either side. Wood says, “This position shows you are secure and self-assured—you love to face forward and solve problems head on. You don’t like a fuss, but you set high standards for yourself and others.”
Like The Yearner (see above), your sleep position matches the Get It Right DiSC personality style. You like to read thought-provoking books and work by yourself. You take your time and play by the rules, and you wish others would do the same. You’re also a homebody, and favor relaxing in your own space over going out with other people.

8 / 9

If you sleep on your back with both arms around the pillow, you’re in the company of just 5% of the population. Wood explains, “You make a great friend because you’re always ready to listen to those who are important to you. You offer help when needed and generally don’t like to be the center of attention."

9 / 9

People who tend to sleep with their limbs twisted and flung out all over the bed (perhaps we’ve all been there, right?) are experiencing stress. Wood says, “You are under constant pressure, or struggling to get through something. You can often feel like you’re falling short and the tension can wear you down.” If you’re consistently falling asleep and waking up this way, examine what in your life may be causing you trouble and re-evaluate how to fix it. It's also helpful to surround yourself with calming scents before bed. The ylang ylang, patchouli, and cypress essential oils in NYR Organics’s Beauty Sleep Spa Collection ($85) will help to calm and unwind.


Regis and Kelly video on sleep positions:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEv89JEDzPA

Other sleep position articles by Patti:
http://www.bodylanguagelady.blogspot.com/search/label/Sleep%20position
http://www.bodylanguagelady.blogspot.com/search/label/Sleep%20and%20Body%20Language
http://www.bodylanguagelady.blogspot.com/search/label/sleep%20habits%20of%20men

Actual article link:
http://www.byrdie.com/best-way-to-sleep

Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at www.PattiWood.net. Check out Patti's website for her new book "SNAP, Making the Most of First Impressions, Body Language and Charisma" at www.snapfirstimpressions.com. Also check out Patti's YouTube channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.

Body Language Read of Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova on Doping, Is She Llying? Did She Know.

Body Language Read of the Apology Statement Deception of Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova to make ‘major announcement’ Yes, she is lying.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_u5Jkaho3Qw&feature=youtu.be

She takes long confident steps to the lectern (not podium as that is what someone stands on.) Her head comes down slightly and she turns her head and body away from the audience and she does a small self-comforting rock back and forth as she faces the lectern. This combination of spontaneous, unplanned cues shows that initially she wanted to look confident and righteous, but is overcome by the event.  

The unfolding of her notes on the piece of paper looked very staged oddly staged to look offhand as if there was not an entire team of people telling her how to respond to this discovery. But the way she rested her folded hands for a moment and then looked up shyly and talked in a low tone of voice, again looked, at this point, more planned and rehearsed to look humble and contrite. She touches her hair and throws her hair back in a nervous way showing a concern about how she looks to the audience.

When she says, “I received a notice that I had failed a drug test …” her mouth becomes dry and she struggles to say it as she is still shocked. Interesting that when she says, “I did fail the test and I take full responsibility for it”  her volume goes up significantly and she says in clipped way, “I take FULL..” then her volume goes down and she tries to swallow in the words and speeds up the message as she says, “…for responsibility for it.” She wanted to sound like she is taking responsibility but the end of her sentence and her head down not looking at the camera shows she clearly does NOT. It’s not shame, her posture is erect and she merely does not fully own her apology.

As she says, “…given by my doctor, my family doctor.” Look how her left arm is folded and wrapped around her right to form a castle wall of protection from her stomach. This is an absolutely understandable comfort cue.  The wording with the cues is interesting, the doctor gave her the medication. She does not say, her doctor prescribed it or that she took it, but puts the "owness" on him for “giving it to her.” Odd that she never “Googled” it. As she would have seen a few lines down in the description its performance enhancing effects as she said, “it also has a name of meldonium,” she says, “I did not know.” Though the drug she was taking has many side effects and she would have had to be informed of them and she was taking it for 10 years.

Her message choice also seems off when she says, “She was given the medication for health issues that she WAS having in 2006...” as she was still taking the medication 10 years later. When the wording is as odd and as carefully worded that it gives a strong indication of message manipulated to deceive.

She smiles as she says, “I don’t want to end my career this way.” Since this is the first time she gives a true smile and the way her eyes flirt and dance and her head moves as she says it I don’t believe it is a nervous smile… I think she believes she still has a career that she is too big to suffer this loss. This humor and playfulness continues as she says, “I know many of you thought that I would be announcing my retirement.” She actually smiles and tilts her head and flirts again as if she is thinking, “Ha, I fooled you, and I have the upper hand here.” And continues as she makes a joke about the, “fairly ugly carpet.” As a media coach, I was appalled that she chose to be playful and make a rude comment when she has cheated other honest athletes who worked very hard and made sacrifices for their sport.

From her delivery and word choice I think she knew exactly what she was doing and she thinks she will win out over this discovery.

Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at www.PattiWood.net. Check out Patti's website for her new book "SNAP, Making the Most of First Impressions, Body Language and Charisma" at www.snapfirstimpressions.com. Also check out Patti's YouTube channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.

Facial Recognition Team Building Exercise For Children

Research indicated that children who show their emotions clearly and can decode the emotions from other people’s facial expressions are the more popular and tend to have higher grades.

Here is a classroom exercise to help children learn body language skills. 

Facial Recognition Team Building Exercise

Have the children sit in a circle and take turns having the other children guess what their facial expression means.

Another way to teach facial expression of emotion is to use facial expression cards or photos of children and adult facial expressions. If you search for facial expressions of emotions you will find many examples of Dr. Paul Eckmans Basic six emotions.  

Put the children in teams of three and have them number a piece of paper from one to six. Show the photo of the faces with the Basic six emotions. Have them work as a team to guess the correct emotion for each face. Then go through the facial expressions with the whole group and see who got the most right answers. Prepare so you can point out each part of the face and each cue that leads to the correct interpretation of emotion. You can refer to Dr. Paul Ekman’s work for accurate description and photos.

As homework ask them to ask their family to play “guess the emotion” at the family dinner table. Family members can "put on" a pretend emotion on their face and have the family guess what it is.

Another layer class exercise option is to play a documentary and freeze frame on faces and have the class guess the emotion.  

Patti Wood, MA, Certified Speaking Professional - The Body Language Expert. For more body language insights go to her website at www.PattiWood.net. Check out Patti's website for her new book "SNAP, Making the Most of First Impressions, Body Language and Charisma" at www.snapfirstimpressions.com. Also check out Patti's YouTube channel at http://youtube.com/user/bodylanguageexpert.