Parents often tell me, "My child just doesn't listen to me!" Listening is a skill that has to be taught. Here are some ideas to help:
One of the most important skills that children need to learn is listening. Listening skills play an essential role in the development of communication and social skills. As a parent or teacher, it is important to provide children with fun and engaging games and activities to help them develop these skills.
One game that can help promote listening skills is "Simon Says." This classic game involves one person giving instructions, but only when they start with the phrase "Simon says." Children must listen carefully and only follow the instructions if they hear the phrase. If they follow an instruction without hearing "Simon says," they are out of the game.
The game “Traffic Lights” also encourages children to listen as they may only move around when you say “Green”, they must freeze and stay absolutely still on “Amber” and must sit down quickly and quietly on “Red”. Alternatively you could use green to run, Amber to walk slowly and Red to freeze.
"Storytelling" is a really excellemt way to promote listening skills. One person starts a story and then it passes on to the next person to continue. Each person must listen carefully to what was said before them, and build upon it. This not only promotes
listening skills but also encourages creativity and imagination.
“Musical Chairs" is a classic game that can help with listening skills too.
As children move around the chairs, they must listen carefully to the music and be ready to sit down when it stops. It encourages children to pay attention to their surroundings and react quickly.
There are many fun and engaging games and activities that can help promote listening skills in children. By incorporating these activities into your daily routine, you can help them develop these essential skills, which will benefit them in all areas of life.