How to Play Simon Says with Your Child at Home

A simple call-and-copy game can quietly build some of the biggest skills your child needs — listening, waiting, and following instructions — all while you're both laughing.

In short

Simon Says is a wonderful home game for growing your child's listening, attention, impulse control and ability to follow directions. Start slow and silly, use clear actions your child already knows, and celebrate effort over winning. The magic is in the pause — your child learns to listen for "Simon says" before moving, which builds the self-control that helps with learning and play.

How to play it well at home

Start simple (just say and do)

• Begin with one easy action: "Simon says touch your nose." Do it together so your child copies you.
• Use big, fun movements — clap, jump, stamp, wave. Children stay engaged when their whole body joins in.
• Keep rounds short and full of praise: "You did it!"

Add the listening twist gradually

• Once your child enjoys copying, introduce the rule: only move when you say "Simon says" first.
• Go slowly. Pause before each instruction so your child has time to listen and decide.
• If they move on a "trick" command, keep it light — no one is "out". Smile and say, "Tricky! Listen for Simon."

Grow the challenge as they're ready

• Add two-step actions: "Simon says touch your head, then jump."
• Swap roles — let your child be Simon. Giving the instructions builds language and confidence.
• Play in short bursts (5–10 minutes) so it stays joyful, not tiring.

Make it work for every child

• For a child who finds words hard, pair each instruction with a picture or your own action to copy.
• For a child who finds waiting hard, start with very short pauses and lots of encouragement.

The Pinnacle way

Games like Simon Says are gentle, everyday ways to build listening and self-regulation — and they tell you a lot about how your child takes in and acts on instructions. If you notice your child consistently struggles to follow simple directions, wait their turn, or join in, our speech therapy team can help. A clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre under qualified clinician care — you can read how the AbilityScore® works and what to expect.

Trusted sources

Guided by child-development resources from the American Academy of Pediatrics (healthychildren.org) and CDC "Learn the Signs. Act Early.", which highlight imitation games and follow-the-leader play as everyday ways to nurture attention, language and self-control.

Next step — play one round tonight, then message our team on WhatsApp (+91 91001 81181) to book a developmental check if you'd like a clearer picture of your child's listening and attention skills.

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