Reindeer Says
What you need
- a bit of open floor space
How to do it
- Explain the game: only do the move if Reindeer says so. "Reindeer says stamp your hooves!"
- Give a few moves: stamp, gallop on the spot, hop on one foot, shake your antlers.
- Every now and then, give a move without "Reindeer says" and see who stays still.
- Swap over and let your child be the reindeer giving the orders.
Why it matters
Waiting for the magic words before moving is real self-control, and being the reindeer in charge is a turn they love.
What they're learning
- Listening for the rule
- Moving only when they hear "Reindeer says" takes careful listening.
- Stopping themselves
- Staying still when every part of them wants to move is self-control.
- Taking turns
- Being the leader and then the follower is a game with a clear turn each.
What to look for
Notice them catching themselves and freezing when you forget to say "Reindeer says".
A tip
Play away from the tree and the furniture corners, and laugh with them when they get caught out.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: always say "Reindeer says" and just play follow the leader
Harder: give two moves at once, like "stamp twice and then hop"
