A Quiet Sign

Activity Description: Youth learn and practice a “Quiet Sign” chosen by the group to signal when it is time to stop and listen.

Items Needed:

Instructions (Estimated Total Time: 15–20 min):

Decide on a Quiet Sign. (3–4 min)
- As a group, choose a symbol such as a Scout sign, peace sign, or hands up. Agree that the Quiet Sign means stop and listen.
- Explain that when the leader raises the quiet sign, everyone stops speaking and raises the sign up to show they are ready for the leader to speak. The leader cannot speak until everyone is ready.
- Note: When using the Quiet sign, do not talk over or yell to get attention. Stand quietly and wait for everyone. A quiet “well done so-and-so” may be appropriate to encourage following the Quiet sign.
Practice the Quiet Sign. (1–2 min)
- Each youth and adult partner demonstrates the chosen sign. Leaders check that everyone understands.
Use the Quiet Sign in action. (2–3 min)
- Youth and adult partners make noise together. Without speaking, leaders raise the Quiet Sign and wait for silence.
- Everyone stops, raises their own sign, and listens when they see the sign.
Group up. (5–8 min)
- In small groups, each youth and adult pair shares what they like to do as a family, their favorite food, and favorite color.
Regroup using the Quiet Sign. (2–3 min)
- Leaders raise the Quiet Sign to bring everyone back together.
- (Optional) Make it a game and try several times between talking and quiet. See which group notices and has all their signs in the air first.