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Anticipation games are great fun to play with your toddler. But how do you play them?
In all sorts of different playtime activities, try to build suspense by saying 'Ready… Steady…' and leave a gap for them to respond before saying 'Go!'.
Check out the video below to see how playing simple anticipation games can really improve your child's listening and attention skills.
What are the benefits of anticipation games?
Playing basic anticipation games like 'Ready, Steady… Go!' are a great way for you to interact with your little one. You’ll often find that, once you start playing these games, children will love the repetition and want to play them regularly!
- Anticipation games allow children to practise saying certain phrases and short, simple sentences. They also get to sing along if you wanted to add a tune as you play!
- It's also a great way for them to take the lead and get you prepared for something fun!
- By giving answers and explaining what will happen after 'Go!' you are actively encouraging them to format sentences on their own and get creative.
- By playing this game, your little one will practise their engagement and listening skills as they will wait for the 'go' before they can do something.
- Working out whether or not they have to do the action after 'go' helps children develop their decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Image caption, When you're playing, build their excitement by saying 'Ready...'
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Types of 'Ready, Steady, Go' anticipation games
Anticipation games can be easily adapted for your child. Whether you're out and about or relaxing at home, there's always something that can be turned into a game.
As you can see from the video above, playgrounds are an ideal place to play anticipation games.
If you'd rather play at home, you can use balls or everyday objects to turn a simple activity into something more fun.
- If you want to help your toddler get confident on their feet, you could set up a little race and on 'go' you both set off across the park or garden. If needed, you can hold your little one's hand to support them.
- If you want to bring some music into the mix, you could play musical chairs or statues and replace the 'go' with 'stop' when the music stops.
- Bubbles are always a fun option with children. Whether it's blowing bubbles or playing with bubbles in the sink or at bath time, once you've said 'go' see how many bubbles you can pop together!
Whatever version of 'Ready, Steady, Go' you choose, your little one is bound to love it!
