Introduction

Following directions is a crucial skill for kindergarten students. It helps them complete tasks efficiently and fosters a positive classroom environment. Teachers give directions every day in school, and it’s essential for young learners to understand and follow these instructions. By focusing on key words, repeating them, and working step by step, students can improve their ability to follow directions, boost their self-confidence, and make their teachers proud. In this blog post, we will explore a no-prep activity, discussion questions, and related skills to help kindergarten students develop this vital skill.

No-Prep Activity: Simon Says

One of the best ways to help kindergarten students practice following directions is by playing a classic game like Simon Says. This activity requires no preparation or materials, making it easy for educators to incorporate into their lesson plans. To play Simon Says, the teacher will give a series of commands, starting with the phrase “Simon says.” Students should only follow the directions if the command begins with “Simon says.” If the teacher gives a direction without saying “Simon says” first, students should not follow the instruction. This game helps students practice listening carefully to directions, focusing on key words, and responding quickly to instructions.

Discussion Questions

• Why is it important to listen carefully when the teacher is giving directions?
• What are some strategies we can use to help us remember the key words in a direction?
• How can we make sure we’ve completed all the steps in a direction before moving on?
• What are some examples of times when following directions is especially important?
• How does following directions help us become better learners and classmates?

Related Skills

Along with following directions, there are several other skills that are essential for kindergarten students to develop. These include:

• Active listening: Paying close attention to what others are saying, asking clarifying questions, and demonstrating understanding.
• Self-control: Learning to manage emotions and behaviors, especially when faced with challenges or frustrations.
• Cooperation: Working together with peers to complete tasks, share resources, and solve problems.
• Responsibility: Taking ownership of actions and following through on commitments.
• Resilience: Bouncing back from setbacks and maintaining a positive attitude.

Next Steps

Teaching kindergarten students to follow directions is an essential part of their social-emotional development. By using engaging activities like Simon Says and fostering thoughtful discussions, educators can effectively help young learners build this crucial skill. To access more resources and activities for teaching students to follow directions and other essential skills, sign up for free samples at Everyday Speech.