Yes or No Game

Child development / Drama games / Yes or no game

Yes or No Game is a fun speaking and concentration challenge where children have to think carefully before answering.

By avoiding two simple words, they practise quick thinking, listening and finding different ways to express themselves.

How to play

1. Sit together

Sit somewhere comfortable with your child.

2. Explain the rule

Tell your child they are not allowed to say the words:

"Yes"

or

"No"

3. Begin asking questions

Ask simple questions such as:

"Do you like school?"
"Do you have any brothers or sisters?"
"Are you feeling happy today?"

4. Encourage creative answers

Your child must answer without using the forbidden words.

For example:

"Of course."
"I do."
"Definitely."

5. Continue the conversation

Keep asking questions to challenge their concentration and quick thinking.

6. Swap roles

Let your child ask the questions and try to catch you out.

What it teaches

Concentration and focus
Quick thinking
Vocabulary development
Listening skills
Confidence speaking aloud
Self-control

Variations to try

Speed round - Ask questions more quickly to make the challenge harder.
Take turns - Swap roles after every few questions.
Three lives - Give each player three chances before the round ends.

Principal's notes

Children often find this game much harder than expected which makes it both funny and highly engaging. Encourage children to stay calm and think before speaking rather than rushing their answers. This is an excellent activity for developing concentration and verbal flexibility.

Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.