Brain Break Games for the Classroom: A Teacher's Guide to Using Simon Says to Support Student Development

Looking for a fun, low-prep, no cost way to boost focus, movement and listening skills in your classroom? Welcome back to an old favorite: Simon Says.

This classic game, great for rainy days or brain breaks, is a wonderful way to support children's development across multiple areas, from self-regulation and attention to motor skills and classroom cooperation. With just a few minutes of play, you can help your students reset their energy, improve their listening, while allowing their bodies to move.

Whether you are teaching kindergarteners or 3rd graders, Simon Says is easy to adapt, inclusive to all learners, and packed with benefits you can feel good about. In this post we will explore how to play the game, what it supports, and ways to implement in your classroom. Simon says keep reading!

Benefits of Simon Says

• Enhances Listening & Attention Skills

  • Students have to listen closely and process verbal instructions, especially when trying to catch whether the command starts with "Simon Says".

  • This strengthens processing, attention, and impulse control.

• Strengthens Gross Motor Skills & Coordination

  • Touch your toes. Jump twice. Balance on one foot. All these commands support body awareness, coordination, and motor planning.

• Supports Self-Regulation & Impulse Control

  • One of the core rules of Simon Says is only moving when Simon says... making it a fun and effective way to teach inhibitory control.

  • For students who struggle with attention or impulsivity, this game builds the ability to listen carefully, wait, and move at right time.

• Easily Adaptable to Different Skill Levels

  • Younger kids: start with simple one step commands, "Simon says, touch your eyes"

  • Older kids: build to multi step commands, "Simon says, turn in a circle and then clap your hands"

  • Incorporate academic content: "Simons says, touch something that starts with B", "Simon says, find something red"

  • Add sensory rich movement opportunities: "Simon says jump like a frog"

Whether you have five minutes between lessons or need a quick way to re-engage your class, Simon Says is an easy, no-prep activity that packs a lot of developmental value. From building listening skills to supporting self-regulation and motor coordination, this classic game can become a meaningful part of your classroom routine. Best of all, your students will be learning through play — and having fun while doing it. So next time you need a quick movement break or transition activity, give Simon Says a try — your students (and their nervous systems) will thank you!

How to Play Simon Says

1. Choose a Leader (Simon): One person starts as “Simon” — the one giving the commands. (This can be a teacher or student)

2. Give Commands Starting with "Simon Says": Example: “Simon says touch your nose.”Everyone should do the action only if it begins with “Simon says.”

3. Trick with Commands Without "Simon Says": If Simon gives a command without saying “Simon says” (e.g., “Clap your hands”), anyone who follows it is “out” or does a fun consequence like a silly dance or quick reset.

4. Keep the Pace Fun and Varied: Mix up the actions — go slow, then fast; add tricky or funny moves to keep kids engaged and listening carefully.

5. Rotate the Leader (Optional): Let students take turns being “Simon” — it builds confidence, leadership, and social skills.