Simon Says Stretch
Here's What To Do
Gather a few family members or friends together and choose a family member to be the first leader (aka "Simon") to start. On your own? It’s fine to play with only two players too!
The leader says "Simon Says…" and then the name of the stretch. "Simon" demonstrates the stretch, and the whole family has to copy them. Stretch ideas:
- Touch your toes
- Bend to the side
- Reach for the sky
- "Butterfly stretch"
- Roll your head or shoulders
- Point and flex your feet
To make the game harder, add a rule that nobody stretches unless the leader says “Simon Says” before their command. If you move, you’re out!
Repeat and take turns being Simon!
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Choose some fun music to move to and spread out so everyone has space to stretch. Great! You’re ready to start!
Engage:
- "The leader is going to be called 'Simon' and the leader has to show us some stretches that we'll match. I'll go first so we can learn how to do it. Then we can take turns being Simon."
- "Simon says stretch your calf muscle. Simon says touch your toes. Reach for the sky! Oops, I didn't say 'Simon says' that time, you're out!"
Encourage:
- "Let me help you match Simon's stretch. Try it like this!"
- "It feels good to stretch the back of my legs. Do you feel a stretch anywhere in your body?"
Reflect:
- How do our bodies feel after this game? When might be some good times to stretch?
Not quite ready?
Pick one stretch to practice in the morning when you wake up and another to practice at night. Change the stretches every day.
Ready for more?
Look up some yoga stretches online and play the game with those poses.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to lead others in exercise, and to know more about stretching.