Leader Guide

Optional Opening Game

This game will help us to practice self-control with our body and our voices. It is played like the game called “Simon Says.” Our game is called “Daniel Says.”

You will only do the action or make the sound if you hear “Daniel Says” first. If Daniel doesn’t say to do it, then use self-control and stay very still! Are you ready?

Have the children stand. Give each direction below, beginning some by saying “Daniel Says” and others without saying it, to see if the children are really listening!

If a child doesn’t follow the directions, do not have them “sit out” for the rest of the game.

Choose as many directions, in any order, as time allows.

[Daniel says:]

Jump up and down

Brush your teeth

Comb your hair

Put your hands behind your back

Blink your eyes two times

Shout your name

Bark like a puppy

Knock on a door

Shout “AMEN!”

Oink like a pig

Twirl around two times

Stretch as high as you can

Pat your head

Make a happy face

Make an angry face

Swim in the pool

Yawn really big

Fold your hands to pray

Climb a ladder

Stick out your tongue and say ahh

Touch both ears

Roar like a lion

Hop on one foot

Hop on two feet

Clap your hands

Blow a kiss

Stand on the tips of your toes

Tweet like a bird

Hiss like a snake

Pat your tummy

Moo like a cow

Wave goodbye

You may choose to play two different ways:

● Daniel stands at the head of the class and gives directions.

● Daniel stands in the circle of children to give directions. This is a good choice for a small room.

Conclusion: I liked how you listened and showed self-control in this fun game.

Now, Daniel says cheer and clap for each other!