Learning to follow directions is an important life skill that can be nurtured. The ability to follow directions directly affects a child's learning and performance in school. In fact, their health and safety depend on their ability to listen and follow directions. In addition, this 'real world' skill will support their learning throughout their lives. However, most children experience some difficulty complying with instructions- they are busy with their own thoughts and desires and oftentimes 'forget' to do as they are told. Parents must exercise patience as their child matures and grows in his capability to follow-through consistently.

The ability to follow directions, especially oral, multi-step ones, is an important Kindergarten skill. It can also be a difficult skill for kids to master and often requires a lot of practice. Playing games is a great way to work on listening and following directions!

Steps:

1. Select a child (preferably oldest among the group) to give directions to other children

2. The leader gives directions such as “run to the big tree, touch the bark, and come back,” or “run over to the slide, go down one time, and come back” or “run around the tree three times.”

This activity is great not only for gross motor skills, but also for listening and following directions!