Change the Room

Perform 7-12 child
Child development / Drama games / Change the room

Change the Room is an observational challenge that sharpens memory, focus and teamwork.

Children practise noticing details in their surroundings while working together to test a peer's observation skills.

This game is ideal for building concentration, patience and problem-solving in a fun and interactive way.

Child smilling in drama class

How to play

1. Start with observation

Ask the group to study the room closely and memorise as many details as they can.

After 30-60 seconds, choose one child to step outside with supervision.

2. Make changes

As a group, choose two or three subtle changes to the room. For example:

  • Move a chair slightly
  • Swap places with another child
  • Turn off a light or open a door
  • Place an object somewhere new

3. Time to guess

Invite the child back in and challenge them to identify the changes.

Give them a time limit or a set number of guesses.

4. Repeat

Play several rounds with new volunteers so everyone has a turn.

What it teaches

  • Observation and memory skills
  • Focus and attention to detail
  • Patience and problem-solving
  • Team strategy and collaboration

Variations to try

  • Challenge the group to make silent changes
  • Set a theme (e.g. only people can move, or only objects can change)
  • Increase difficulty by changing more elements or turning off lights


Principal's notes

This deceptively simple game is brilliant for developing visual recall and focus. It's always fun to see which children have a sharp eye and which changes surprise everyone!

Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.

Lucy Quick - Principal of Perform


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