England · USA / Canada (origins traced to early 20th century North America, possibly earlier in Europe as 'O'Grady Says')
Simon Says
Also known as O'Grady Says (Ireland), Simple Simon Says, O Mestre Mandou, Simón Dice
Only obey commands that start with 'Simon says', otherwise stay still.
3+ playersAges 4-12In or outCalmSmall spaceNo kit
The rules
How to play
1
One player is Simon.
2
Everyone else faces them.
3
Simon gives instructions like 'Simon says touch your nose', 'Simon says hop on one leg', players must follow.
4
But if Simon says just 'Touch your nose' (without 'Simon says'), anyone who obeys is out.
5
Simon tries to catch people by speeding up, giving rapid-fire commands, or moving their body to trick others.
6
Last player remaining wins and becomes Simon.
Keep it fair
Players sometimes insist they didn't move. Make Simon's commands distinct and clear, any visible movement counts as obeying. A neutral adult observer helps with close calls.
Good for building
listeningmemoryconcentration
What you need
Nothing at all, just the kids.
More to play
