Parent tip
Start before you overthink it. No-prep activities work best when you begin while the moment is still recoverable.
Simon Says Movement
Follow 'Simon Says' commands for silly movements.
Activity details
Instructions
- Explain the rule: only do it if you say 'Simon says' first
- For toddlers, skip the 'tricking' part and focus on following directions
- Give fun commands: 'Simon says touch your toes!'
- 'Simon says jump three times!'
- 'Simon says make a silly face!'
- Model each action as you say it
- Let them be 'Simon' and give commands
- Keep commands simple and movement-based
What success looks like
Flushed cheeks, big smiles, and a calmer child afterwards. If they want to do it again, you’ve found a winner.
A classic game that teaches listening, following directions, and impulse control. The structure of waiting for the 'Simon says' cue before acting exercises the prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for self-regulation that is still rapidly developing in toddlers. Keeping commands physical and silly ensures the learning happens through laughter rather than pressure.
Why it helps
CDC parenting tips include 'ready, set, go' games as a recommended way to introduce simple verbal cues that toddlers must wait for. Simon Says works the same prefrontal cortex muscle — the brain region responsible for self-regulation — by requiring the child to pause until they hear the trigger phrase. The silly physical commands also build listening comprehension and burn off restless energy without needing equipment.
Variations
- Replace 'Simon says' with a character your toddler loves — 'Teddy says' or 'Dinosaur says.'
- Add a musical element — clap a rhythm for them to copy.
- Play outdoors and include bigger movements like running to a tree or jumping over a stick.
Safety tips
- Keep commands safe — avoid 'close your eyes and run' or similar.
- Play on a soft surface if commands include jumping or spinning.
- Watch for dizziness after spinning movements and pause if needed.
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