Simon Says with Balloons

Simon Says with Balloons is a fun way for youth to learn about listening and obedience. In this game, players have to pay close attention, follow specific instructions, and work together. It’s not just about hearing what to do but being careful to do it right. This teaches the importance of listening carefully and cooperating with others.

This game can show us how the Church’s teachings guide us. Just like in Simon Says, where listening closely to directions matters, paying attention to the Church’s guidance helps us stay on the right path. The game highlights how being faithful and obedient can be challenging, but it’s important for unity and trust.

The balloon variation adds a twist that teaches us the value of focus and self-control. The balloons symbolize something we need to protect. If players get too distracted or act too quickly, they risk dropping or popping their balloon. This is similar to how we have to be careful with our faith, avoiding actions that might harm our relationship with God and others.

Through this game, youth can reflect on when it’s difficult to obey or respect authority. Sometimes we may question Church teachings or struggle with rules. This activity opens up a conversation about why the Church guides us and when it’s right to respectfully question or follow with trust.

This version of Simon Says teaches lessons about obedience, just like the stories in the Bible. In the Old Testament, God gave Adam and Eve a command in the Garden of Eden. They were told not to eat from one tree. But they didn’t follow this command, and it led to serious consequences. In the game, the youth learn that following the right instructions matters. It reminds them of how listening to God’s word is important for staying on the path He sets for us.

This game also brings to mind the story of Noah. God gave Noah very specific instructions on how to build the ark. Noah listened and trusted, even when others did not understand or agree. By following God’s instructions, Noah was able to save his family. In Simon Says, listening carefully is what keeps players in the game. This theme helps youth see how trusting God, even when His ways seem unusual, brings protection and blessings.

The balloon variation adds an extra reminder about staying alert and careful, which connects to Jesus’ parable of the wise and foolish virgins. Jesus teaches us to be ready, keeping our “lamps” prepared for His return. If players in the game lose focus, their balloons might drop or float away, which reminds them of how easy it is to lose sight of what’s important.

Through these connections, youth can see how following God’s commands brings life and safety. It helps them understand that the Church’s teachings are there to guide them, just as God’s words guided His people in the Bible.

Materials Needed:

• Balloons (one for each pair of players)

Setup Instructions:

1. Divide the group into pairs.
2. Give each pair one balloon.
3. Have each pair blow up their balloon and tie it.
4. Instruct each pair to stand back-to-back with the balloon held between their backs, without using their hands.

Game Play Instructions:

1. A leader stands at the front and gives “Simon Says” instructions. Some commands will start with “Simon Says,” while others won’t.
2. Pairs must follow instructions that begin with “Simon Says” and ignore commands that do not.
3. If the leader says, “Simon Says, pat your head,” pairs should pat their heads while keeping the balloon in place.
4. If the leader says, “Pat your head,” without “Simon Says,” pairs should ignore the command.
5. Pairs are “out” if they:
   • Respond to a command that didn’t start with “Simon Says.”
   • Ignore a command that started with “Simon Says.”
   • Touch the balloon with their hands.
   • Let their balloon fall to the ground.
6. The game continues until only one pair remains. This pair is the winner.

Additional Notes:

• For an extra challenge, use helium balloons. Pairs must keep the balloons from floating away while following instructions.
• Remind players to be careful when moving to avoid bumping into others or popping the balloons.
• Make sure players understand not to hold or grab the balloon with their hands.

This game encourages close listening, focus, and following instructions carefully. Enjoy!

What is the goal of the Simon Says game with balloons?

The goal is for each pair to follow only the instructions that begin with “Simon Says” while keeping the balloon between their backs. They must avoid dropping the balloon or following commands without “Simon Says.”

How many players do you need for the Simon Says game?

A: The game works best with at least four players, divided into pairs. More players make it more challenging and fun!

What happens if someone touches the balloon with their hands?

If a pair touches the balloon with their hands, they are “out” for that round of the Simon Says game.

How does the game end?

The game ends when only one pair is left. This pair is the winner of the Simon Says game.

Can this Simon Says game be played indoors?

Yes, the game can be played indoors, as long as there is enough space for pairs to move without bumping into each other.

What if we don’t have enough balloons?

If you don’t have enough balloons, you can have each pair take turns.

The Simon Says game with balloons takes a classic activity and adds a fun twist to make it even more engaging. This version helps youth learn the importance of paying attention and following instructions. Each pair of players holds a balloon between their backs and must follow only the instructions that begin with “Simon Says.” Any mistakes, like following the wrong command or dropping the balloon, mean they’re out of the game.

This game isn’t just about listening closely; it also teaches self-control and careful movement. The balloon adds an extra challenge, reminding players to be aware of their actions. This twist makes it more fun but also shows how even small mistakes can have an impact. By playing, youth can think about the importance of following guidance, similar to how we follow the teachings of the Church.

The Simon Says game with balloons also encourages trust and cooperation. Each pair must work together to keep the balloon in place while staying focused on the commands. It’s a simple game, but it leaves room for reflection. After playing, youth can discuss how it felt to follow or ignore instructions and how these lessons relate to faith and obedience.

Want a fun way to teach listening skills and focus? Try the Simon Says game with balloons! This twist makes the classic game more challenging and adds new lessons. Perfect for youth groups, it’s a fun way to connect faith and fun. Give it a try, and let us know how it went in the comments! Share any new variations or tips you came up with while playing. We’d love to hear your ideas and experiences!