Easy Icebreaker Games for Any Space in Adapted PE

Sarah Fuller, MS CAPE
Sep 30
2 min read

Start the year with movement, laughter, and connection.

Icebreakers aren’t just for classrooms—they belong in Adapted P.E. too! The right activity at the beginning of the year helps students feel safe, included, and excited to participate.

Whether you teach in a gym, hallway, classroom, or outdoors, these simple, adaptable games will help build community and trust from day one.

In this post, I’m sharing three of my favorite icebreakers that work in almost any space—and a free download with 10 more ready-to-go ideas.

🧊 Why Use Icebreakers in Adapted PE?

✅ They reduce anxiety in new settings
✅ They help you learn student names and preferences
✅ They encourage peer interaction and collaboration
✅ They create early success experiences for every ability level

Icebreakers set the tone for inclusive, joyful movement. And the best part? They don’t require fancy equipment or long explanations.

🎲 Featured Icebreaker Games

1. “Move If” Circle Game

All students stand (or sit) in a circle. The teacher or a student calls out a prompt:

“Move if you like pizza!”

“Move if you have a pet!”

“Move if you’re wearing red!”

Students who relate to the prompt perform a fun movement (jump, clap, wiggle). It’s a quick way to discover commonalities and get everyone moving.

Adapt it: Use visuals, have paraprofessionals assist with prompting, or modify movement options for accessibility.

2. “Mirror Movements” in Pairs

Students work in pairs. One student becomes the leader and performs simple movements (stretching, clapping, balance poses) while the other mirrors them.

After a minute, they switch roles.

Why it works: It encourages observation, focus, and gentle movement—all while building connection.

Adapt it: Use a visual cue card to guide movement choices or pair students with support staff.

3. “Roll & Respond” Dice Activity

Use a large foam die with prompts written or taped on each side. Students take turns rolling and responding to the movement or question they land on:

Jump in place
Say your favorite food
Spin like a helicopter
Show your strongest pose
Touch something red
Say hello in a silly voice

Adapt it: Use a picture die, include sensory-friendly movement options, or play as a group instead of individually.

📥 Free Resource: Icebreakers for Adapted P.E.

Download my Icebreaker Activity List with 10 low-prep, inclusive games for students of all abilities.👉 Download the Free Icebreakers List

📘 Build a Full-Year Plan with the Manual

Want icebreakers, behavior supports, routines, and lesson plans for every month? The Ultimate Adapted P.E. Manual

Includes visuals, templates, and more community-building strategies like these.

🔍 Keywords:

Icebreaker games, adapted physical education, back to school, inclusive activities, team building, special education PE, no equipment games, community building