Games to play at home

Games to play with four year olds

Lucy Quick Here's a selection of games and exercises we use in our weekly classes to help boost children's confidence, concentration, communication and coordination skills. Click on the game titles to read more.

What am I?

Children are naturally curious and that's not surprising with so many wonderful things to discover about the world.

Part of your child's curiosity comes from a desire to work things out for themselves. You can help them develop their question/ answer capabilities and stretch their powers of deduction with this game.

Tell your child that you're going to play a guessing game - think of an animal and give your child three facts about it. For examle:

I purr when I am happy

I am furry

I like to chase my tail

Your child then has to guess what the animal is. If they have a couple of incorrect guesses give them a bonus fact to help them along. Then swap over, so your child gives you three facts about an animal whilst you guess what it might be.

Weird Wonderful Will

Speaking and listening skills are essential for progress through school and into the wider world. Help develop your child's phonics and language skills by playing this Perform alliteration game.

First explain that alliteration is all about grouping together words which all begin with the same sound: like weird, wonderful and Will all begin with a ‘w' sound.

Then give an example which isn't alliterative e.g. jumping, gorgeous Jeremy: jumping and Jeremy begin with a ‘j' sound, but gorgeous begins with a ‘g' sound.

Take it in turns to play and discuss the examples which your child comes up with. Don't worry if they get it wrong - simply offer up suggestions. You could also come up with some yourself, and ask your child to judge whether they are correct or not.

Toyshop

This is one of the most popular Perform games and is ideal for developing concentration and confidence.

Ask your child to sit down and close their eyes. Tell them think of their favourite toy and imagine what it would be like to become that toy. Ask them to think about the colour, shape, material and feel of the toy and to imagine how it would move, sound and speak.

Tell your child that you are the Toyshop owner and that they are one of the toys in your toyshop. When you are in the room, they must keep still and quiet, but when you go outside of the room they can come alive, move, speak, and act like the toy has come alive. However, when you come back in they must stand as still as a statue.

The real trick for playing this game is to go for it and really enjoying playing the character. Give the toyshop owner a funny accent and mannerisms. Talk to yourself, dust the toy, move it about in different poses. Then go out of the room.

When you come back you must act very surprised that the toys are not where you left them. Make a big thing of putting them back into place, re-posing them etc.

Then go out of the room and repeat the process.

Key Game

This is a fabulous game to develop concentration skills as well as being lots of fun!

Ask your child to stand at one side of the room against the wall. Explain that there is a dungeon which has treasure in it, but the key to the dungeon is guarded by a dragon. To get the key they must move quietly and slowly and stand completely still if the dragon wakes up. If the dragon sees them move they will have to go back to the beginning.

You play the dragon. Children love it when you really act out the part: snoring when you are asleep, roaring and growling if you see your child move etc.

Tents to Teepees

Here's a game which is great for getting children's imaginations working (and your own!)

Tell your child that you are going on a camping adventure. Decide with them where you will go, eg the desert, the North Pole, a forest, etc.

The journey is long and arduous with lots of exciting experiences on the way. Make sure you keep things varied and unexpected. When you arrive set up a camp by hanging a sheet or duvet over a couple of dining chairs. Whilst you are there, have a fantastic adventure. Meet some local people, try the local food, discover the animals and the local geography etc.

Yes or No Game

Over my years at Perform, I've found the Yes or No game really useful in helping children to develop their vocabulary and communication skills - why not have a go at home?

Explain that you are going to ask some questions, but they are not allowed to answer with either 'yes' or 'no'. Start off with some easy questions, then progressively make them a little harder:

‘Do you have any brothers and sisters?'

‘Do you like school?'

Keep it light-hearted and fun. If the answer 'yes' or 'no' simply laugh and say 'oops try again'. If you like, you can swap over and have them ask you some questions too - just remember the rules!

Penelope loves Perform! She will regularly ask me how many days until Wednesday, counting down until Perform. She is very confident and independent but can shy away with new groups of people. In the short space of time she has attended Perform I can already see a difference at school- making new friends and interacting with other children at play centres.

– Miss Helen Grayer

Sylvia loves coming to Perform. She looks forward to it every week and talks about going back the next week straight after the session she’s just finished! It’s the best thing she’s ever done and she is thriving on her independence attending the class not knowing anyone from before. She has learnt all her songs , fingers crossed the enthusiasm and new found love of drama will continue for many years.

– Mrs Vicky Mcfarling

Christopher loves Perform and has a great relationship with Emily. He wishes it could be longer, as he's having so much fun! Thankyou so much

– Miss Sarah Lawrence

Henry absolutely loves the classes and has no qualms about heading in to each session. I’ve enjoyed singing the songs with him too.

– Mrs Kate Wallace

Evangeline enjoys Perform SO much. She always comes out with a massive smile on her face.

– Mrs Els Ogorman

She loves it! It’s a wonderfully supportive class - wish we’d started it long ago.

– Ms Becky Allen

Holly really enjoys the lessons both at school and on the Saturday. She really likes Craig who is very encouraging and seems to be making good progress with her confidence so thank you.

– Mrs Sarah Peel

Absolutely brilliant class and all activities. George loves coming to the sessions and his confidence grows with each session. He loves dance moves and funny song rhymes.

The staff are all excellent and extremely professional.

– Ms Ruslana Khatagova

Ivy has always been very energetic and since being at Perform she has had something to focus herself on, she listens to the YouTube play list of the songs all the time and loves showing off to the family her lines.

– Miss Amy Eccles

Chloe absolutely loves her classes as does her best friend Ava! A fantastic way to enhance her skills whilst having fun

– Ms Sophie Koczen

Grace loves attending her Perform classes. Every Monday she is super excited and can’t wait to put on her red t-shirt! When we arrive at the venue she always skips in through the door - what a credit to your teachers!

– Mrs Sophie Goulding

Harper absolutely loves going to Perform every week- she calls it ‘The Sunshine Place!’ She loves receiving the sticker each week for her poster and we’ve already bought her costume for the show which she’s really looking forward to!

– Miss Louise Bowyer

Grace has a wonderful time at all weekly sessions. She is always happy and uplifted after the class.

– Ms Reneta Guninska

My son loves this class - its the best thing about his week apparently!

– Mrs Laura Phillips

George loves going to Perform, he says "It's really great, we play cool games and have loads of fun." I'm loving George's enthusiasm and can't wait to see the performance.

– Miss Nikki Butler

Ava took an instant liking to this class, and has loved it every week. Sophie has engaged her enthusiasm like no drama class she’s tried before. Absolutely brilliant!

– Mrs Tracey Taylor

Annie absolutely loves perform. She does a few clubs during the week and this is by far her favourite. She was hooked after her free trial. The quality of the venue is lovely; easy access and easy to find (as we're not from the area).

– Mrs Vicki Bannon

My daughter absolutely loves her classes! She was shy at the beginning as she had never done a class without me before (5yrs old)-Aled and Maria really helped her to settle in and now she can't wait to resume classes after Easter break!

– Miss Lisa Navin

Laura is very enthusiastic & this makes the class fun & engaging for the students. Selyena loves going & is excited when she gets home to tell me all about it!

– Ms Clare Moorcroft

Thomas has only attended 5 sessions and he absolutely loves it. The staff are very enthusiastic, fun and make it all so welcoming and exciting for the kids. We have noticed a difference in Thomas confidence already!!

– Ms Felicity Kennaway

Maisy really looks forward to coming. She told us that Katherine is always very happy, funny and kind.

– Miss Teresa Tully

Ferne is thoroughly enjoying her weekly sessions at Perform! She enjoys the games, songs and dances; she enjoys teaching them to us each week too!

– Mrs Kate Betts

Ellen is so welcoming and friendly towards the children. Rebecca loves going to Perform. Love the fact that it focuses on a different social skill each week. Thank you!

– Ms Marie Fry

Lola loves Perform, and Katie seems to really get the children's attention. She comes home singing the songs, and the Superhero app is her new favourite thing...

– Miss Teresa Palmer

We love everything about Perform, it's so good on so many levels. We think this is the best weekly class on the planet!

– Mrs Dana Burton

Effie greatly looks forward to every week at Perform. I have nothing but the highest regard for Kate, her colleague and Perform as a whole.

– Mrs Annette Riddle

This is the only after school class that my daughter can’t wait to attend. I am also impressed with important skills being taught in your class

– Mrs Nadia Merkulova

Gabriel is a very quiet and shy boy, but is really enjoying going to Perform. He’s excited about the ‘Superhero theme’ this term and we’re excited to see his social development :)

– Mr Ashley Brent

Imogen absolutely loves her time at Perform. Catherine is so enthusiastic and always gives really personal feedback which makes you realise how much attention she gives each child.

– Mrs Alexandra Demain

Alex is enjoying class immensely. He looks forward to it each week. I think the quality of the resources and the structure of the lessons at Perform are really outstanding.

– Mrs Siobhan Puschmann

Anabelle loves the classes and can't wait to go every week. She is very happy that she has made friends and the teachers are lovely.

– Ms Danica Torbarina

My daughter is enjoying her classes, definitely has a lot more energy since she started and can’t wait to go back in every week

– Ms Faith Sikasote

Nicole is having a fantastic time at Perform and looks forward to attending her class on Tuesdays. She has so much fun that the session finishes as quick as a flash.

– Ms Angela Attridge

My children love Perform - they always come springing out of the class with huge, excited smiles on their faces. Alana is friendly, approachable and professional, and she makes my boys feel totally at ease.

– Mrs Beth Dixon

Anna was so enthusiastic after her initial trial session. She loves Thursday because she has Perform and I think she seems more confident speaking with adults and new people since beginning classes.

– Ms Beth Sweeting

Rosie absolutely loves coming to Perform each week. She is really enjoying practicing the songs and learning her lines for her first show!

– Miss Layla Smith

Toby is loving the class. In his words he says "it's amazing and can't wait to go again". The teachers have been fab. They are very enthusiastic and encouraging. Long may his enjoyment continue

– Ms Sam Harper-Allen

Wow, Donell is always looking forward to attending his drama lessons. He is always counting down days to coming Monday, in the name of drama . Thank you all for good work!

– Ms Joyce Otieno

Caleb absolutely loves Perform. I wish we had done it sooner. It’s brilliant that all children regardless of ability are given a chance to shine.

– Ms Maria Giacopazzi

Jack absolutely loves the classes and already he is growing in confidence!

– Mrs Dani Allen

Aiyla absolutely loves Perform. After class, she is always buzzing and raves about how much she loves it. The teachers are amazing and they bring out the kids confidence so well.

– Melissa Parkes

It's truly the highlight of Finley's week. He's quite shy but blossoms more with each class. We couldn't be happier with his progress and seeing him smile.

– Ella O'Donnell

Arnika enjoys her classes every week and looks forward to the next class. I am very happy with the way Arnika has settled in and that is all thanks to the teachers.

– Vanisha Kapur

Emma is thoroughly enjoying the Perform classes and looks forward to it each week. It was a joy to then watch her so happy and confident in the show.

– Susan Anderson

Vicky is excellent! Bursting with enthusiasm and energy. The kids all seem to be brimming with confidence and excitement when they leave.

– Nadia Day

Very pleased with the quality and teaching at Perform, my daughter looks forward to it every week. Keeley's enthusiasm and energy is infectious!!

– Liz Grazier

Hannah always wakes up excited on Saturdays and can't wait to join the class. Very happy!

– Rosalie Ellis

Will absolutely loves the weekly class, and it is a delight to watch him thrive in the sessions.

– Katherine Hodson

My daughter really enjoys the classes and always comes out happy and enthusiastic!

– Lucy Ryder

I love seeing Tazmin bounce after each class with energy and happiness.

– Eva Lovell

Skye is really enjoying her sessions at Perform. She comes home with a big smile each week and is excited to tell me what she done each session.

– Miss Charmaine Wilkinson

Hannah loves Perform! She sings the songs and talks about what she's learned each week without any prompting from me. She very much looks forward to going each week and she thinks Rhia is wonderful!

– Mrs Jennifer Asser

This is a fab class! Katie loves it and asks each morning if today is Perform day! It was also mentioned at her recent parents' evening that her confidence in class seems to have grown so I am delighted, thank you!

– Dr Jane Spurgeon

Freya loves every class, she is always bubbling with enthusiasm after each session, singing all the songs and telling us all about it. Great for her confidence. Thank you!

– Mrs Rian Steward

Libby absolutely loves going to perform. Every week she asks how many sleeps until perform again! I am over the moon with how much Libby enjoys the class.

– Mrs Lisa Hickey

Tegan has absolutely loved Perform. She asks nearly every day if she's going to Perform and disappointed 6 days of the week! Vicky has been superb with her and made Tegan and us very welcome. I can't speak highly enough of it.

– Mrs Kate Reed

Olivia loves perform, and has described it as "even more fun than a party". It's a highlight of her week.

– Mrs Lisa Long

My girls love going to Perform & are always excited when it's Perform day, the excitement even starts before school.

– Ms Lynsey Hamilton

Ethan was unsure when I suggested this class, but after the first trial class he bounded out saying he loved it! He looks forward to this every week, I think it may be the highlight of his week!

– Mrs Kate Jordan

When my son started he was incredibly shy and Perform really helped him gain in confidence - maybe a little too much :) I heartily recommend Perform and think all the staff are really wonderful, caring people.

– Gary Zipman

It's great that the weekly classes focus on the children having a good time above all, and building up their confidence. Every time I tell my child "You have Perform today" she jumps and cheers!

– Mrs C. Klein

Arun is a newcomer but the classes are already one of the highlights of his week. There is a sense of inclusion in the groups, no matter what the skill level, or confidence level, of the child.

– Mrs Jenny Salariya

This is right up Chanelle's alley. She thoroughly enjoys attending Perform. She really enjoys practising her lines and dance moves. Her connfidence is shining.

– Ms Debborah Scoular

Elliot absolutely loves it. Perform is like a glove to a hand. It suits him very well. I am looking forward to seeing the changes in him from the classes.

– Ms Charlotte Munro

Kitty is loving these classes and Sam is just brilliant - I can't stop hearing Kitty tell me how brilliant Sam is and she sins the songs and plays the CD constantly. Thank you!

– Mrs S Rochford

Abbie loves going to Perform, she is excited from the moment she wakes up, she loves singing and dancing and enjoys all aspects, she has always been very confident and this is being supported greatly.

– Kelly Priaulx

Excellent classes. My eldest Christopher still loves going each week and still going strong after three years, and Sam asks every day if tomorrow is Perform Day as he is loving every week!

– Tania Elkin

Ronny told me the other day that Perform is his favourite after-school club and this says already everything...

– A Moor

My son loves the class and asks everyday if he's going to Perform 'today'.

– Sheetal Patel

Thomas really enjoys the classes. He has been listening to the CD non stop. I now know all the songs myself. I am looking forward to seeing the final production.

– Johanne Copeland

Joseph loves going to Perform and cannot wait for a Friday saying it's the best day :)

– Sharon Keep

Thursday is Louis' favourite day of the week purely because he gets to go to his Perform class. He enjoys every moment and I believe it's the best class we have ever signed up to.

– Sharon Bonfield

The boys love it! Oliver did not want to join a drama group and it is now the highlight of his week!

– Sarah

Naoise is always very excited about going to Perform. Thank you for your never-ending enthusiasm and effort and for injecting a little wonder and magic into her life every week.

– Rae Ni Bhreacain

My 7yr old daughter absolutely loves it. On the first day she said to me, she wishes she could go there every day :-).

– Paulina Lisiecka

Ryan enjoys his time at Perform and describes it as 'it's awesome!' One of my aims was for Ryan to have fun at Perform and I am pleased he is really enjoying himself. Jason King is excellent :)

– Mudita

Really enjoys the class. Thinks Ollie is the funniest man on earth

– Vivienne curtis

My daughter hasn't been going long but adores the classes and comes out on a high!

– Joanna Hogan

To say Bethany is excited about attending her Perform class every week is an understatement... she absolutely loves it and seems to gain so much from it!

– Cassie Greenwood

Evie is loving the Perform classes, especially the songs. She listens to the CD every night in bed.

– Caroline Hamilton

Tom is really enjoying Perform and looks forward to Tuesdays. He loves the songs and chatters away about what he's done in class.

– Ali McGrath

Lara wants to go every day, she keeps asking me if tomorrow is Monday! She simply loves it.

– Alexandra Mele

Alex and Zosia absolutely LOVE the course and I could not be more pleased!

– Agnieszka Wilcock