The Preschooler

Chain Games

One of the most important skills preschoolers should learn in preparation for kindergarten is how to listen. Most children hear just fine, but when you speak to them, you realize where the phrase, “In one ear and out the other” has originated. It may feel as though you are speaking to a wall. This is because they haven’t learned how to listen. Listening involves gathering information. There is a purpose to what is being heard. Fortunately, there are many fun ways in which you can help your child strengthen his listening skills.

One such way is the use of chain games. Although you may not have called them by this title, you have probably played them yourself as a child. Begin by setting the scene. Try to use something familiar. For example, if you have recently gone camping you could say, “I’m going camping, and I will bring a …..”, and then fill in the blank. Keep this introduction phrase short. After you have filled in the blank, ask your child what he would bring. Then, repeat the phrase adding his item to the list. For example, if you filled in the blank with “tent” and he filled it in with “fishing pole”, you would repeat, “I’m going camping, and I will bring a tent and a fishing pole.” Next, you add another item and repeat all 3 in order. You then take turns with your child. Help your child to use the beginning phrase and then complete the list of items in order. This game can be played just about anywhere since it requires no materials. Once your child is familiar with how it is played, he may want to make up the beginning phrase. This game is also a lot of fun when played with more people.

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Written by BRWI Staff on August 18, 2009