Simon Says is one of the easiest children’s party games to organise, but it often becomes one of the funniest as well. The game needs almost no preparation, no expensive materials, and can begin within seconds, which makes it very useful during birthday parties, classroom activities, rainy afternoons, or moments when children need a quick game to burn some energy.
The game is based on listening carefully. One person becomes “Simon” and gives instructions to the group. However, the children should only follow the instruction if the sentence begins with the words “Simon says.”
If Simon says:
“Simon says touch your nose,” everybody should touch their nose.
But if Simon only says:
“Jump three times,” without saying “Simon says,” the players should stay completely still. Children who move by mistake are out of the round or lose a point, depending on how competitive the group wants the game to be.
Nobody knows exactly where the modern version of Simon Says first appeared, but listening games like this have existed for many generations. Teachers, parents, and group leaders have long used similar games because they combine concentration, movement, memory, and laughter in a very simple way.
One of the nicest things about Simon Says is that it works almost anywhere. It can be played indoors in a living room, classroom, or hall, but it also works beautifully outdoors in gardens, parks, or playgrounds. Because children do not need to run quickly or compete for objects, the game often feels calmer than some other party games.
Simon Says is usually best for children between about four and ten years old, although older children often enjoy becoming the leader and trying to trick the group with silly instructions. Younger children especially enjoy exaggerated actions such as pretending to be elephants, robots, frogs, or sleepy cats.
The game can be played in different ways depending on the atmosphere of the party. Some groups enjoy elimination rounds where children leave the game after mistakes, while other groups prefer a softer version where everybody simply keeps playing together. The calmer version often works very well for younger children or mixed-age groups.
Supervision is light. Usually an adult only needs to help guide the game or step in if children become too excited or start shouting over each other.
CLARA’S TIP
Children often enjoy Simon Says much more when the instructions become funny instead of difficult. Animal noises, silly dances, robot walks, pirate voices, or pretending to balance invisible cakes on their heads usually create more laughter than complicated rules.
For shy children, group actions also help because nobody is being watched alone.
Variations Of Simon Says
There are many ways to make Simon Says feel fresh during a longer party. Some adults use themed versions such as pirate commands, jungle animals, superheroes, or space adventures. You can also turn the game into a movement break with stretching, dancing, hopping, or balancing challenges.
Another fun variation is allowing children to become Simon themselves. Many children love having the chance to lead the group for a few rounds.
Safety Notes
Because children sometimes become excited and move quickly, it helps to keep enough space between players. Indoors, fragile objects and slippery rugs should be moved away before the game starts. For younger groups, slower actions usually keep the game calmer and safer.
What is the goal of Simon Says?
The goal is to listen carefully and only follow instructions that begin with the words “Simon says.”
What age is best for Simon Says?
Most children between four and ten years old enjoy the game very much, although older children can still enjoy leading the game.
Can Simon Says be played indoors?
Yes. It is one of the easiest indoor party games because it needs very little space or equipment.
Does Simon Says need any materials?
No. The game can be played almost anywhere without special equipment.
Can toddlers play Simon Says?
Yes, although younger children usually enjoy slower and simpler instructions.
How long does a game of Simon Says last?
Most rounds last around ten to fifteen minutes, although the game can easily be shortened or extended.
Is Simon Says good for classrooms?
Yes. Many teachers use the game because it encourages listening, focus, and movement.
Can children take turns being Simon?
Yes. Many groups enjoy letting different children become the leader for a few rounds.
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