How to Play Simon Says

The Basics

• 1

  Line up the group across from you, 10 to 20 feet away.

• 2

  Tell the players that they should all obey you if you first say the words "Simon says."

• 3

  Tell them that they are out of the game if they follow an order that doesn't begin with "Simon says," or if they fail to do what Simon says to do.

• 4

  Begin by saying something like, "Simon says, put your hands on your head."

• 5

  Look to make sure everybody has put their hands on their heads.

• 6

  Give another order such as, "Simon says, stand on one foot." Check again.

• 7

  Continue giving orders. Mix it up and say something like, "Raise your right hand," without the preface "Simon says."

• 8

  Call out the players who raise their hands.

• 9

  Play until one person is left. This is the winner.

• 10

  Let that person give the commands for the next round.

Getting Tricky

• 11

  Give the orders fast, in rapid succession.

• 12

  Cut the orders short, saying, "Simon says, do this," and make the motion you want mimicked, such as putting your hands on your shoulders.

• 13

  Do this step several times with a different command each time.

• 14

  Quickly say "Do this," and make the motion -- put your hands on your waist, for example. Many players will automatically follow your lead (and end up out of the game).

• 15

  Relax and say something like "Straighten up the line," in a casual manner. Again, several players will comply (and they'll be out).

• 16

  Single out specific players, especially older ones who are harder to fool. Say, "Chris, move back (or up) a step." She might fall for it.

• 17

  Ask a question every now and then. Point and ask, "What's your name again?" If the person answers, he's out.

• 18

  Keep the pace moving fast. Everyone will be laughing so hard, they won't care who's in or out, or who wins or loses.