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Remember the game Simon Says? It was so much fun watching everyone try to do those wacky things. Did you know you could play this game and teach your children how to count too? It’s a lot of fun for everyone, so include the whole family when you play.

How to Play

Start by making a circle of all the players. Be sure it’s an area that is free from any types of objects that could be hazardous. Move furniture out of the way, move throw rugs that could cause someone to slip and be sure there are no toys lying around the area.

Once you have all the players in a circle, start the game. Simon can be anyone but until your child has the idea of counting down a little bit don’t consider them for the Simon part.

Now remember its Simon Says so you always have to say Simon Says _______. Be sure every activity has a number in it. For instance, Simon Says lie on the floor and lift your legs four times and so on. Everyone has to complete the task and while completely the task they have to count each time they lift their legs.

Pay close attention and make sure everyone is doing it the specified number of times and counting each and every number. If they don’t then they are eliminated from the game. Of course the child who is learning how to count may have some trouble so help them along as they count and do the task.

Also remember that if you don’t say Simon Says they aren’t supposed to do the task. If they do they are out of the game. This is a chance for your child who is learning to count to take the spotlight. When you don’t say Simon Says and nobody is doing the task ask them to then count up to the number you said. If you say turn around six times then have them count to six. Have everyone join in the counting if your child isn’t quite up to doing it on their own just yet.

Once your child has learned to count let them be Simon. Make it a reward for learning how to count those numbers. Not only is this game a way to learn for your children but also a fun way to include the whole family in that learning time.

Submitted by Nicole