What to do with this activity?

This is a great game for getting a child to listen carefully before they respond. When they know the rules, it will be fun to play it with other children, perhaps at a party.

1. Get your child or children to stand facing you.
2. Tell them that they should copy your orders only if you first say the words “Simon Says”.
3. Tell them that they are out of the game if they follow an order that doesn't begin with "Simon says," or if they fail to do what Simon says they should do.
4. Begin by saying something like "Simon says, put your finger on your nose.”
5. Then check to see if everyone has put their finger on their nose.
6. Give another order such as, "Simon says, stand on one foot." Check again.
7. Continue giving orders. Mix it up and say something like "Raise your right hand," without saying "Simon says" first.
8. If someone puts up their right hand, then they are out of the game.
9. Play until one person is left. That is the winner.
10. Let that person give the commands for the next round.

You can find ways to catch them out. For instance, relax and say something like "Straighten up the line," in a casual manner. Several players will comply (and they'll be out).