One of the easiest ways to boost a child’s focus, memory, and emotional awareness is an old-school game most parents and teachers already know: Simon Says.

Research in child development shows that this activity strengthens attention, working memory, self-control, and emotional intelligence. Here, we’ll cover how Simon Says works, the benefits for growing brains, and how parents can use it at home to keep kids both active and engaged. Let’s begin.

How Simon Says supports brain development for children

Simon Says is more than a classroom icebreaker or playground filler. Experts say that it is a great game for children of all ages, and it also helps teach emotions.

The game challenges kids to follow instructions, but only when the phrase begins with “Simon says”. That small twist forces children to pause, listen carefully, and hold information in working memory before deciding whether or not to act. This process exercises executive functioning, the set of mental skills linked to attention, problem-solving, and impulse control.

Because it requires movement, Simon Says also supports gross motor development. Commands like “jump three times”, “touch your toes”, or “spin around” get kids moving in ways that improve balance, coordination, and strength. It blends physical activity with mental engagement, which can boost brain health during childhood.

Another hidden benefit is vocabulary building. Each round introduces kids to new words and actions—anything from “stomp like a giant” to “tiptoe quietly”. As children connect language to movement, they expand both comprehension and expression.

Emotional awareness can also be woven into the game. By asking kids to “show me a happy face” or “pretend to feel nervous”, adults help children practice recognizing emotions and expressing them safely. These playful scenarios give children a better understanding of themselves and others, strengthening empathy and social connection.

Finally, Simon Says encourages patience and self-regulation. Kids have to resist the urge to follow commands without listening for the cue. That small pause trains inhibitory control, an important skill for academic success and behavior management in everyday life.

Tips for parents to make the most of the game

For parents, Simon Says is easy to adapt at home, whether during playtime, after school, or on rainy days indoors. To maximize the benefits, keep these strategies in mind:

Mix up the commands: Blend simple movements with trickier instructions so children are challenged without feeling frustrated.
Add emotion practice: Use prompts like “Simon says show me a proud face” or “Simon says comfort a sad friend” to encourage empathy and emotional expression.
Keep it active: Incorporate movements that get the heart rate up, like jumping or running in place, to combine exercise with mental focus.
Use it for transitions: Try a quick round before homework or bedtime as a way to shift gears while still keeping kids engaged.
Make it collaborative: Let children take turns being Simon. This builds leadership skills and keeps them motivated.

Parents don’t need structured lessons or screens to support their child’s cognitive and emotional growth. A simple game like Simon Says, played with consistency and creativity, can boost memory, strengthen self-control, and nurture empathy, all while keeping kids laughing and moving.