Command Phrasing: More Than Just Words
The magic is in the phrasing. A “Simon says, touch your nose,” turns into a transformative experience when phrased as “Simon says, touch your nose and say, ‘I am unique.'” One is an ordinary command; the other is an affirmation disguised as a command. Kids start to associate positive affirmations with simple tasks, internalizing them without even realizing.
Why Movement and Repetition Are Key
“The body keeps the score. Physical experience shapes who we are.”
Physical activity aids memory retention—that’s Psychology 101. When a kid jumps while shouting, “I am free,” they’re not just playing; they’re embodying the affirmation. They’re associating the freedom of movement with the words they’re saying, creating a neural pathway that’s hard to ignore.
Advanced Moves for Advanced Minds
Ready for Level 2? Multi-step commands are your go-to. For example, “Simon says, touch your heart, do a twirl, and shout, ‘I am joyful!'” This isn’t just a game anymore; it’s a multi-level training session for the mind and body.
- For Younger Kids: “I am good,” “I am happy.”
- For Older Kids: “I am invincible,” “I am unique.”
Know Your Audience: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Who’s playing? Tailor the affirmations to fit the age and understanding of the children. For the little ones, stick to basic, tangible affirmations. For the older, more introspective kids, dive into abstract concepts like gratitude or self-worth.
Building an Emotional First-Aid Kit
“Words have power, and in the right sequence, they become spells for our emotional well-being.”
When life throws a curveball, your child has a toolkit. Imagine them facing a challenge and instinctively responding with a powerful affirmation: “I am strong,” “I am worth it,” “I am not defined by others.” That’s the emotional resilience you’re building.
Integrate, Don’t Isolate
Don’t make this just a ‘special activity.’ Incorporate it into daily routines—a playtime activity or maybe a study break energizer. The more spontaneous, the better. It makes the affirmations a natural part of their daily language.
The Fun Factor: It’s Still a Game, After All
Never forget the fun. Kids can spot a teaching moment from a mile away. The challenge is making them believe it’s all part of the game—a game that leaves them not just entertained but also emotionally fortified.
In Conclusion: Let the Transformation Begin
Affirmation Simon Says isn’t just a game; it’s a revolution in emotional learning. A child engaged in this game is a child on the path to emotional resilience and self-awareness. So why wait? Let the real game begin!