If you’re looking for ways to stay active while listening, there are several “active listening” games that go beyond the standard bingo or coloring pages (although we love those too). The ideas below are designed to help everyone process the themes of the talks while keeping their hands and mind busy.
1. The “Frequency” Tally
Pick a specific theme or word before a session starts (e.g., Covenant, Temple, Joy, or Service). Create a simple bar graph on a piece of paper. Every time a speaker mentions that word, add a mark to the graph.
- The Goal: By the end of the weekend, you’ll have a visual data set of what the primary focus of the conference was.
2. “Sketch-Noting” (Visual Journaling)
Instead of writing traditional linear notes, try Sketch-noting. This involves using symbols, arrows, and typography to map out a talk.
- How to play: If a speaker tells a story about a boat, draw a simple boat. If they mention a “path,” draw a winding line. It forces your brain to translate the spoken word into a visual image, which significantly improves memory retention.
3. The “Question & Answer” Hunt
Before the session begins, write down three personal questions or challenges you are currently facing.
- The Goal: Listen specifically for “answers”—not necessarily direct ones, but a phrase, a story, or a feeling that gives you a new perspective on your questions. Check them off as you feel they are addressed.
4. Quote “Trading Cards”
Cut several 3×5 index cards. For each speaker, try to capture their “thesis statement” or most impactful quote on one side, and a quick doodle or the speaker’s name on the other. We even have a free downloadable that you can print and cut for the trading cards. Just sign up for our monthly freebie email list.
- The Goal: By Sunday evening, you have a physical deck of cards representing the highlights of the entire weekend that you can review later.
5. Alphabet Alphabetizing
This is a high-focus game. Try to find a key word from the talks that starts with every letter of the alphabet, in order from A to Z.
- The Challenge: Some letters (like Q, X, or Z) are much harder to find and will require very intent listening!