Weatherball
A quick emotional temperature check where participants pass a patterned ball and choose a patch that represents their current emotional 'weather'. Low-pressure and tactile, it works especially well with groups that don't know each other, haven't met in a while, or are facing tense situations.
How to run it
- 1
Introduce the weatherball: explain that each patch represents a different type of emotional weather.
- 2
Model first: hold the ball, choose a patch, and say what it represents for you today (e.g. 'I chose this stormy patch because I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed').
- 3
Pass the ball around the circle. Each person chooses a patch, shares what emotional weather it represents for them today, and briefly says why.
- 4
No discussion or responses during the round — just listening.
- 5
After everyone has shared, briefly reflect on the emotional landscape of the room.
Tips
The tactile element (actually holding a ball) reduces the anxiety of emotional disclosure.
If you don't have a weatherball, use any object with distinct visual sections — a beach ball with coloured panels works well.
Can also be used topic-specifically: 'Choose a patch that shows how you feel about [topic]'.
Variations
Digital version: use a shared image of the weatherball in a slide deck and ask participants to drop a pin or emoji on the patch that fits.
Where it fits
Related methods
Frequently asked questions
When should I use Weatherball?â–¾
Use Weatherball when you want to: Check-in; Emotional safety; Tension diffusion; Team connection.
How long does Weatherball take?â–¾
Weatherball typically takes 5–15 minutes.
How many participants does Weatherball work for?â–¾
Weatherball works best for groups of 4–20 participants.
What materials do I need for Weatherball?â–¾
To run Weatherball you will need: A patterned cloth ball with multiple distinct patches (weatherball), Alternatively: a beach ball or any object with distinct sections.
How difficult is Weatherball to facilitate?â–¾
FacilitationMethods.faqA5Easy
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Try it freeMethod descriptions on Workshop Weaver are original content written by our team, based on established facilitation practices. This method was inspired by work from University of Hawaii.