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.

For more information and resources, see https://young-catholics.com/10225/simon-says-with-a-twist-balloon/