How to Play the Instruction-Following Game with Your Child at Home

Following instructions isn't a test your child passes or fails — it's a skill that grows, one playful round at a time.

In short

The Instruction-Following Game turns everyday listening into joyful play — you give a small, clear instruction, your child follows it, and you celebrate together. Start with one-step directions, keep it fun and short, and slowly build up as your child succeeds. This strengthens listening, attention, memory and the language understanding that underpins learning at home and school.

How to play at home

Start simple (one step).

• Give one clear instruction: "Touch your nose," "Bring me the spoon," "Jump two times."
• Use your child's name first, get down to their eye level, and pause to let them process.
• Celebrate every attempt — a clap, a cheer, a high-five. Success keeps them coming back.

Build up gently.

• Two-step directions once one step is easy: "Pick up the ball and put it in the box."
• Add fun twists — silly actions, animal noises, or "Simon Says" so they listen for the cue.
• Mix in hide-and-find directions: "Look under the cushion, then bring it to Amma."

Keep it warm and short.

• Five to ten minutes is plenty. Stop while it's still fun.
• If your child struggles, shorten the instruction or add a gesture or point to help.
• Praise effort, not just the perfect answer — "You listened so well!"

Make it part of daily life

You don't need toys or a set time. Weave directions into routines: "Put your shoes by the door," "Give the cup to Thatha," "Wash your hands, then sit down." Cooking, tidying and bath time are all natural practice. The more real and meaningful the instruction, the better your child remembers and generalises it.

The Pinnacle way

A clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre, under qualified clinician care — home play is for nurturing, not assessing. If your child finds following simple directions consistently hard for their age, our team can guide you with the Instruction-Following Game and tailored speech therapy approaches that match your child's pace.

Trusted sources

Guided by WHO Nurturing Care framework, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) on receptive language, and CDC developmental milestone resources — all of which highlight everyday, responsive play as the strongest support for a child's understanding of language.

Next step — try one-step directions for a week, then message our team on WhatsApp to learn how to build the next stage with confidence.

This is general information, not a diagnosis — individual assessment and diagnosis require an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.