Ice Applause and Snowball Applause

Sometimes a short, silly applause can add just the right amount of energy to your Pack meeting. If your Cub Scouts have been sitting quietly for a few minutes, this is a good way to help them let out a little excitement. It also gives you a fun way to recognize a Scout or a den after they have done something well. This might be after a flag ceremony, a skit, or a demonstration.

These types of group applauses are great because everyone joins in together. First, explain what you are going to do. Then show them. Then lead the whole group as they do it together. Most groups like to finish with some regular clapping too.

These two applauses are called the Ice Applause and the Snowball Applause. They are simple and don’t need any props. Just some imagination. These fit well with a winter theme, like a Winter Wonderland Pack meeting or a holiday event. But you can use them at any time of year just for fun.

Both of these applauses let the Scouts move around and make noise in a fun way. The Ice Applause is good for getting the whole group laughing. The Snowball Applause gives everyone a chance to act out a motion. These are quick and easy ways to keep your meeting exciting and keep Cub Scouts involved.

Cheers, yells, and applauses have been part of Scouting for many years. They started as a way to keep Scouts active and involved during meetings and campfires. A short cheer helps break things up, gives Scouts a chance to move, and makes the program more fun.

Leaders have passed these on over time. Some come from training events or roundtables. Others are made up on the spot and just stick. That’s likely what happened with the Ice Applause and Snowball Applause. No one knows exactly who made them up, but they’ve been used by many packs over the years.

These short group activities work because they’re quick and easy. They let everyone join in. They don’t take much planning. They are good ways to fill a gap, shift attention, or just keep things moving. That’s why they’re still used today.

How to Do the Ice Applause

1. Stand up.
2. Start walking in place slowly, like you’re on a slippery surface.
3. Wave your arms around like you are trying to keep your balance.
4. Say “Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!” as you wobble side to side.
5. After a few seconds, stop and give a quick clap or cheer.

How to Do the Snowball Applause

1. Pretend to scoop up some snow from the ground.
2. Use both hands to shape it into a snowball.
3. Pull your arm back, like you’re ready to throw it.
4. Pretend to throw the snowball across the room.
5. Say “Splat!” as it hits an imaginary target.
6. End with a smile or a few claps.

These are fun and easy to teach. Practice them once, then do them together as a group.

Printable copy of How to Do the Ice Applause and the Snowball Applause

Why Do Audience Participation?

Cheers, Yells, Applauses, Run Ons, and Audience Participation

Looking for more ideas like the Ice Applause and Snowball Applause? Cheers, yells, and applauses are a fun way to add quick energy to your Scout meetings and campfires. They help Scouts get up and move, even for just a few seconds.

Visit the Cheers, Yells, Applauses, Run Ons, and Audience Participation page for more. You’ll find silly run ons, short skits, and stories that involve the whole group. These help keep your program moving and your Scouts involved. Be ready for laughs, noise, and a few groans! Great for leaders who want to keep things active and fun.

Can I use these applauses with all ages?

Yes. These are simple and fun for all Cub Scout ranks. Even adults like joining in.

Do I need any supplies?

No. You don’t need props or anything extra. Just imagination and space to move a little.

When should I do these?

Use them when Scouts need a short break or after a skit or ceremony. They work well in the middle of a meeting too.

Do I need to practice first?

Yes. Show the group how to do it once. Then have everyone try it together.

Can I use these in a campfire program?

Yes. These applauses are great for campfires, Pack meetings, or any group gathering.

The Ice Applause and Snowball Applause are two simple cheers you can use with your Cub Scouts. They are easy to teach and fun to do. You don’t need anything but a little space and imagination. These cheers work well for winter-themed meetings, but you can use them any time.

In the Ice Applause, Scouts pretend they are walking on ice. They move their feet and wave their arms while saying “Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!” It looks like they are about to fall. This one always gets a few laughs.

The Snowball Applause starts with pretending to scoop up snow. Scouts shape it into a snowball, throw it, and shout “Splat!” It’s fast and easy, and everyone can join in. You can even pretend to hit a target on the wall.

Use these after a flag ceremony, skit, or just to give the group a short break. They help keep Scouts active and focused. A quick cheer like this keeps your meeting fun and moving.