Christmas parties for kids burst with excitement, from twinkling lights to cookie feasts, but keeping little elves engaged can be a challenge. Enter the Santa Says Game—a festive twist on the classic Simon Says that infuses holiday cheer and gets everyone giggling. This simple, no-cost activity sharpens listening skills, encourages movement, and ties into the magic of Santa Claus. Perfect for family gatherings, school events, or neighborhood bashes, it’s adaptable for ages 3 to 10 and requires zero setup. Gather the kids in a circle, don a Santa hat if you have one, and let the ho-ho-holiday fun begin. With just your voice and imagination, you’ll create joyful chaos that rivals any gift under the tree.
Why the Santa Says Game is a Holiday Hit
In a season of overstimulation, the Santa says game stands out for its blend of education and entertainment. Like Simon Says, it teaches kids to follow instructions only when prefixed with “Santa says,” honing focus and impulse control—skills that pay off in classrooms and beyond. The Christmas theme amps up the appeal: Commands can involve jingle bells, reindeer dances, or elf high-fives, making it feel like a North Pole adventure.
Experts from child development organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics note that active games like this boost motor skills, social interaction, and even emotional regulation, as kids learn to wait their turn. It’s inclusive too—adapt for varying abilities by simplifying commands for younger ones or adding challenges for older kids. Plus, it’s screen-free, countering the digital overload of the holidays. Parents love it because it tires out energetic tots without props or mess, leaving more time for eggnog and carols.
Setting Up for Santa Says Success
Preparation is as easy as wrapping a present. Choose a spacious area like a living room or backyard, cleared of obstacles to allow safe wiggling and jumping. Aim for 5-15 players; larger groups add energy, but smaller ones ensure everyone participates. Dress the leader (you or a willing adult) in red if possible—a Santa beard or hat instantly sets the festive tone and helps kids buy into the role-play.
Set ground rules upfront: No touching others, stay in the play area, and freeze if unsure. For very young kids, demonstrate a few rounds. Time it for 10-20 minutes to match attention spans, perhaps between dinner and dessert. If outdoors, incorporate snow-themed commands for extra winter wonder. Music? Optional—a soft loop of “Jingle Bells” in the background enhances the vibe without distracting from instructions.
How to Play: Rules and Basic Commands
The core rules mirror Simon Says: Kids mimic actions only if you say “Santa says” first. Without it, they must resist, or they’re “out” (sit and cheer from the sidelines). The leader starts slow, building speed to ramp up laughs. If a child moves on a non-“Santa says” command, they join the out-group with high-fives—no losers here, just jolly observers.
Essential Commands for Christmas Magic
Kick off with easy ones: “Santa says, clap your hands like reindeer hooves!” or “Santa says, wiggle your nose like Rudolph!” Escalate to: “Santa says, jump like you’re on Santa’s sleigh!” Trick them with fakes: “Touch your toes!” (No Santa says—freeze, elves!) Holiday flair shines in commands like “Santa says, sprinkle imaginary snow!” or “Wave hello to the elves!” For groups, add pairs: “Santa says, high-five your neighbor like delivering presents!”
Keep it fair—rotate leaders so kids take turns as Santa, boosting confidence. If someone forgets and moves, celebrate their enthusiasm; it’s about fun, not perfection.
Advanced Twists for Bigger Laughs
For older kids, introduce themes: A “Gift-Wrapping Round” with “Santa says, pretend to tie a bow!” or a “Reindeer Relay” where groups mimic pulling the sleigh. Add props sparingly—a jingle bell to shake or a scarf as a Santa beard. Time challenges: “Santa says, freeze like icicles for 10 seconds!” To extend play, award “Nice List” stickers for winners, redeemable for treats.
Tips for Maximum Holiday Engagement
Make it magical by narrating: “Ho ho ho! Santa sees you listening so well!” Praise efforts to keep spirits high. For shy kids, pair them with buddies. Watch energy levels—short bursts prevent meltdowns. Inclusivity matters: Modify for mobility needs, like seated versions with arm waves.
Safety first: Ensure the space is hazard-free, especially with excited dashes. If playing in cold weather, layer up and warm up indoors after.
Wrapping Up the Festive Fun
The Santa Says Game transforms ordinary Christmas parties into memorable romps, fostering bonds and holiday spirit without breaking the bank. It’s quick to learn, endlessly customizable, and leaves kids beaming like they’ve just spotted Santa. Next time the little ones need entertaining, channel the North Pole—your gatherings will jingle all the way. Who knows? It might even inspire some real letter-writing to the big guy himself.