Articulation Simon Says

Child development / Drama games / Simon says

Articulation Simon Says is a playful twist on the classic game where children must speak clearly while moving their bodies.

It encourages vocal clarity, listening skills and coordination, making it perfect for focus-building in energetic or distracting moments.

This activity strengthens speech, precision timing and the ability to follow instructions.

How to play

1. Introduce the twist

Remind children how to play "Simon Says" and explain that this version combines speech with actions.

All phrases must be said with clear articulation, even if spoken quickly or loudly.

2. Start with a few examples

Examples include:

"Simon says say 'blue bananas' and do two air punches."
"Simon says say 'Red Lorry Yellow Lorry' while marching."
"Simon says say 'Green Grapes' in a low, slow voice while balancing on one foot."

3. Get creative

Use made-up tongue twisters or alliterative phrases such as Quick Kick, Lazy Lizard, Tiny Tiger, Bold Bird, Sweet Sheep, Funny Fish and Pink Pigs.

Vary pace and volume: say it fast and loud or say it slowly but clearly.

4. Challenge them

Give commands without saying "Simon says" to test listening.

Gradually speed up the pace to increase the difficulty.

What it teaches

Articulation and vocal precision
Listening skills and attention to detail
Coordination of speech and movement
Focus and response control

Variations to try

Team vs team version - who stays in longest?
Let children take turns being "Simon"
Make it themed, e.g. spooky words, food words, jungle animals

Principal's notes

Children love the energy and silliness of this game, but it's also brilliant for warming up the voice and developing focus. It's a sneaky way to practise articulation with lots of laughter along the way.

Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.