Monster Says
What you need
- a clear bit of floor space
How to do it
- Explain the game: only do the move if Monster says so. "Monster says stomp your feet!"
- Give two-part orders: "Monster says stomp three times and then roar."
- Every so often, leave off "Monster says" and see if they catch it.
- Swap, so they're the monster giving the orders.
Why it matters
Listening for the magic words before moving is a rule to hold on to, and a two-part order is a lot to remember with a roar at the end.
What they're learning
- Listening for two things
- Stomp, then roar: holding both in mind.
- Holding on to a rule
- Only moving when Monster says.
- Big monster moves
- Stomping, stretching and crouching with the whole body.
What to look for
Notice them stopping themselves mid-move when Monster didn't say.
A tip
Clear the toys off the floor first, and keep the trick orders friendly. Being caught out is part of the fun.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: skip the trick orders and do the two-part moves together
Harder: add hopping on one foot and galloping, and give the trick orders faster
