Small Group Icebreakers
(For home groups, cell groups, church groups)
Doug Britton, MFT
www.dougbrittonbooks.com
The value of small group icebreakers
When leading a small group, it can help to have one or two icebreakers. People can have a fun time as they get to know one another. Plus, once people talk, they are likely to keep talking.
Icebreaker guidelines for small groups
When discussing these subjects, ask group members to give some details. For example, if you ask someone to describe a favorite pet, ask: What did it look like? What was its name? Why did you like it? What funny things did it do? Was it your personal pet or a family pet? Who fed it? Do you miss it?
Related: Ten questions to ask in any small group
Sample small group icebreakers
Describe an embarrassing incident that happened in elementary school.
Describe a happy memory from elementary school.
Tell a story about your father’s childhood.
Tell a story about your mother’s childhood.
How did you learn how to drive? Who taught you?
What job did you dream about as a child?
Who was your favorite teacher? Why?
Who was your least favorite teacher? Why?
What was your favorite pet? Tell us something about it.
What was your least favorite pet? Why?
Describe a time a parent or teacher treated you unfairly.
Describe a time a parent or teacher made you feel special.
What was your favorite subject in school?
What was your least favorite subject in school?
What was your favorite vacation as a child?
Describe a visit with your grandparents or other relatives.
Describe your first job or volunteer position.
Describe a memorable uncle.
Describe a memorable aunt.
Describe a news event that had a big impact on you.
Describe a family tradition from your childhood.
What were some hobbies you had as a child?
What were some sports you enjoyed in elementary school?
What were some sports you enjoyed in high school?
What were some games you played as a child?
Did you get an allowance as a child? If so, what did you do with it?
Did you ever run away from home?
Describe someone who had a great impact on your life.
What is an activity or sport that you enjoy?
What is an accomplishment that gives you pleasure?
What is your favorite food?
What is a ministry you would enjoy doing?
What advice would you give a new Christian?
What are some things you like about your job or volunteer position?
What is a different career or volunteer position you would enjoy?
What are some of your dreams or goals for the future?
If you are married, name something you appreciate or respect about your spouse.
Next: Evaluate your small group leadership skills
Personal application
What icebreaker questions will you ask at your next home group, church group, or cell group meeting?
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About Doug Britton, MFT
Doug Britton, Bible-based Marriage and Family Therapist, has helped hundreds of thousands of people as a therapist, clinical director of a treatment center, seminar speaker, radio cohost, and author of over twenty books that show how to apply God's truths in your daily life. (Visit www.dougbrittonbooks.com.)
Copyright © 2020 Doug Britton. Permission granted to print for personal use. (Scripture verses are from the New International Version, copyright © 1984.) See reprint policy.