Simon Says
Very small children love this game, and will play it for hours. Taking them out into the garden to play it adds a whole new dimension to the fun, giving extra space for them to move around and make noise. Remember that if the sun is hot they’ll need sun hats and skin protection.
Pick one player to be Simon
Simon then gives orders to the other players like ‘Simon says put your hands in the air.’ They must all obey instantly, but only if they hear the words ‘Simon says’
If Simon gives an order without saying ‘Simon says’ such as ‘Arms up’, any player who obeys the order is out
If Simon gives an order but does something else, (eg she says ‘Simon says put your hands on your hips’ but she folds her arms) the players who follow her spoken instruction are out of the game
The winner is the last one left, who becomes the next Simon.
You can take mattresses or cushions outside for the children to fall on, or if you have hired a bouncy castle for a party – Simon says played inside it can be an absolute hoot for little ones. Remember that if you are outdoors the garden can become a part of the game. ‘Simon says run to the apple tree and back’ will give them exercise and test their knowledge of garden plants. ‘Simon says make a noise like a frog’ allows them to be very silly and get the giggles and so on.