Gameplay
8+ Players 👥
5-8 Minutes ⏱️
What You’ll Need
Chairs (one less than the number of players)
Large open area (enough to set chairs in a circle and allow movement in the center)
Setup
Arrange the chairs in a circle facing inward.
Make sure there’s one fewer chair than there are players.
How to Play
Start with one caller: Choose one player to stand in the middle while everyone else sits in a chair.
Make a call: The caller says, “Change places if…” followed by a statement (example: “…you have brown hair”).
Switch chairs: All players who match the statement (and the caller) must quickly move to a new chair.
Find the open seat: One player will always be left without a chair. That player becomes the new caller.
Keep it going: Play continues for as long as you’d like with fresh “Change places if…” prompts.
Optional ending: End the game when time is up, or after every player has had a turn as caller.
Say Something Like
“Alright everyone, get ready to move! This game is called Change Places If… and the rules are simple. One person stands in the middle and calls out a statement like, ‘Change places if you’re wearing sneakers!’ If that’s you, you’ve got to jump up and grab a new chair. But hurry—because if you’re left standing, you’ll be the next caller!”
Variations
Category Fun: Stick to themes like “Change places if you like pizza” or “Change places if you play sports.”
Speed Round: Add a rule that players must run to a chair instead of just walking.
Reverse Call: Let the group suggest prompts for the caller to say.
Discipleship Teaching Points
This game is a reminder that while we may all be different, God has made each of us unique and special. “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” (Psalm 139:14, KJV)
Secular Teaching Points
Builds quick-thinking skills as players listen and respond fast. Helps groups bond by learning small things about each other in a fun way.
This game idea was submitted by the Josh Barriger. If you want to support him, head over and buy him a coffee!
Keywords: circle game, icebreaker, group bonding, active play
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