Learning Objectives
• Cultivate an appreciation for the uniqueness and value of every individual, highlighting the diversity of abilities and contributions.
• Foster empathy and understanding towards peers, emphasizing inclusivity and belonging.
• Promote awareness of social justice by acknowledging the varied experiences and identities within the group.
Instructions
- Begin by discussing the significance of recognizing and celebrating the uniqueness of each person, acknowledging diverse abilities, appearances, and contributions, including those with physical differences or assistive devices like wheelchairs.
- Lay out a large sheet of kraft paper on the floor or use a spacious table as the workspace.
- Each participant lies flat on their back on the paper while another child or adult traces the outline of their body using a marker.
- After tracing, cut out each outlined figure into several puzzle pieces, ensuring equal division.
- Mix up the puzzle pieces and distribute them randomly among the participants, ensuring representation of various physical characteristics (you can take out some parts of the body to give visibility of those that are missing parts of their body too) and assistive devices.
- Explain that the goal is to collaboratively assemble the puzzle pieces to recreate the outline of the person's body (many different representations of this), respecting and embracing the diversity of appearances and abilities.
- Encourage teamwork and cooperation as they work together to match pieces and complete the puzzle, recognizing the importance of every piece in achieving the collective goal.
- Celebrate the collective effort and display the assembled figures, highlighting the beauty and strength of diversity.
- For older participants, offer variations such as different puzzle levels, incorporating elements like blindfolds or communication limitations to simulate diverse experiences.
Debrief
- Engage in reflection through questions like:
- How did working together to assemble the puzzle feel, considering the diversity of appearances and abilities represented?
- What insights did you gain about the importance of collaboration and inclusivity, particularly in embracing differences?
- How does this activity reinforce the idea of valuing every individual, regardless of physical appearance or abilities?
- Can you recall a time when you felt like a valued part of a group, despite any differences or challenges?
- How can we apply the lessons from this activity to promote fairness, understanding, and inclusivity in our interactions with others, including those with physical differences or assistive devices?
- Highlight the connection between recognizing individual worth and fostering a sense of belonging and purpose within the community, embracing diversity as a source of strength.
Materials
- Large sheet of kraft paper
- Markers
- Scissors
- Puzzle pieces (cut from the traced outlines)
