The Simon Says game for kids is a My favourite that blends listening, movement and laughter into one simple activity. Teachers, parents and coaches use this classic game as one of the most effective listening games for kids because it builds focus while keeping children active. Simon Says fits in any setting with zero setup stress.
- Materials Needed: No equipment required
- Number of Participants: Minimum 3 players. It works well for large group games also.
- Age Group: 4–12 years
- Play Area: It can be classroom, Playground, Living room or activity room
- Play Time: 5–15 minutes per round
How to Play Simon Says
- Choose one player as “Simon”.
- Simon stands in centre of circle and gives commands such as “Simon says touch your toes”.
- All Players must follow the command only if it starts with “Simon says”.
- If Simon gives a command without saying “Simon says” like “Clap your hands” and any player follows it, then that player is out or performs a fun task.
- The last player remaining wins the game and becomes Simon in next round.
Simon Says Game Rules
Simon Says game rules keep the game fair and engaging. Rules to follow in this game are:
- Players move only when the command includes “Simon says”.
- Simon tries to trick players with quick commands.
- No pushing, running into others or unsafe movements.
- Eliminated players may sit out or help in commands.
List of Simon Says Game Commands
1. Basic Action Commands
- Simon says touch your head
- Simon says clap your hands
- Simon says jump up and down
- Simon says stomp your feet
- Simon says sit down
- Simon says stand up
- Simon says turn around
- Simon says wave your hands
- Simon says touch your toes
- Simon says blink your eyes
2. Movement Commands
- Simon says hop on one foot
- Simon says run in place
- Simon says walk like a robot
- Simon says spin slowly
- Simon says march like a soldier
- Simon says crawl like a baby
- Simon says tiptoe quietly
- Simon says jump like a frog
- Simon says stretch your arms
- Simon says bend your knees
3. Animal Action Commands
- Simon says roar like a lion
- Simon says hop like a bunny
- Simon says fly like a bird
- Simon says walk like an elephant
- Simon says meow like a cat
- Simon says bark like a dog
- Simon says swim like a fish
- Simon says slither like a snake
- Simon says gallop like a horse
- Simon says flap your wings
4. Funny Commands
- Simon says make a funny face
- Simon says laugh loudly
- Simon says pretend to sneeze
- Simon says dance like a clown
- Simon says pretend to sleep
- Simon says act like a robot
- Simon says wiggle your body
- Simon says pretend to eat ice cream
- Simon says shake your shoulders
- Simon says walk like a giant
5. Focus & Thinking Commands
- Simon says count to five
- Simon says spell your name
- Simon says say your favourite colour
- Simon says touch something blue
- Simon says show three fingers
- Simon says close your eyes
- Simon says say the alphabet
- Simon says clap twice
- Simon says point to the door
- Simon says whisper your name
6. Challenge Commands
- Simon says balance on one leg
- Simon says jump five times
- Simon says clap while spinning
- Simon says touch your nose and ears
- Simon says freeze like a statue
- Simon says walk backwards
- Simon says jump and clap
- Simon says make a heart shape
- Simon says stretch like a cat
- Simon says stand like a superhero
Wants more commands check out free Simon says command Generator.
Benefits of the Simon Says Game for Kids
Simon Says game looks very simple, but it offers many benefits for children. It supports both learning and fun at same time.
- Improves Listening Skills: Simon Says is one of the best game to teach children how to listen carefully. As kids pay close attention to every instruction, they become better listeners in classrooms and at home.
- Builds Focus and Concentration: The game requires children to stay alert at all times. They must think before acting. Kids learn to stay focused even in a fun and exciting environment.
- Encourages Quick Thinking: Simon Says helps children to develop decision making skills. Kids quickly decide whether to follow a command or not. This improves their mental alertness and problem solving ability.
- Promotes Physical Activity: Even though it is a simple game, Simon Says keeps kids moving. As children jump, clap, stretch and walk during the game so it reduces sitting time and screen use. This keeps children active in a fun and natural way.
- Teaches Self Control: One of the biggest benefits of this game is learning self control. Kids learn to wait, think and respond calmly so it helps them to manage impulses and emotions.
- Develops Social Skills: Simon Says is a group activity, so it helps children to interact with others. Kids experience teamwork and group fun through this game. It also helps shy children to become more confident. Playing together also strengthens friendships and communication.
- Supports Classroom Learning: Teachers love using Simon Says because it supports learning and improves discipline in a fun way. It can be used to teach actions, words and directions. This game makes learning active and enjoyable.
- Reduces Stress and Builds Confidence: Simon Says creates a joyful and relaxed environment as they enjoy playing together. Winning and losing rounds boosts confidence.
Variations
1. Fitness Simon Says
This version focuses on physical movement. Simon should give fitness based commands such as jumping jacks, squats, lunges or stretching. It works well for PE classes.
2. Classroom Learning Simon Says
Simon includes academic actions like “Simon says clap the number of syllables” or “Simon says point to the correct answer.” This variation is popular among teachers as one of the most engaging classroom games for kids.
3. Silent Simon Says
Simon uses only hand gestures or body movements instead of speaking. Players must watch closely and interpret actions, making it a powerful listening and observation challenge for older children.
4. Team Simon Says
Divide players into small groups. If one player in a team makes a mistake, then entire team pauses for one round. This format builds teamwork and makes it ideal for large group games for children.
5. Theme-Based Simon Says
Commands follow a theme such as animals, sports or daily routines. For example, “Simon says hop like a frog.” This keeps younger children engaged and turns the game into a creative action game for children.
6. Speed Challenge Simon Says
Simon increases the pace of commands gradually. Faster instructions test reaction time and focus, making it suitable for advanced groups or older kids.
7. Student-Led Simon Says
Each round, a new child becomes Simon. This variation builds confidence, leadership skills and keeps participation high across the group.
Skills Developed
- Listening Skills: Children learn to process instructions carefully before acting.
- Motor Skills: Movements improve coordination and balance.
- Self-Control: Kids practice stopping impulses quickly.
- Social Skills: Group play encourages patience and cooperation.
Safety Tips
- Ensure enough space between players.
- Avoid slippery floors.
- Use age appropriate movement
- Supervise younger children closely.
- Stop immediately if collisions occur.
Why Parents Love This Game
Parents appreciate Simon Says game for kids because it promotes learning through play. It keeps children active without screens. It works indoors during bad weather and strengthens listening skills of kids that transfer to school and home routines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The Simon Says game for kids continues to be one of the most effective and adaptable games for children of all ages. Its simple rules, zero equipment needs and flexible format make it perfect for classrooms, PE sessions, parties and home play. As one of the most trusted listening games for kids, it strengthens attention, self-control and movement skills while keeping children actively engaged. Whether used as a quick warm-up or a structured learning activity, Simon Says proves that meaningful skill development can happen through fun and interactive play.
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