Objective
Teach kids to listen carefully, wait for the correct command, and respond only when “Simon says.”
Build discipline, sharp reactions, and clean technique while keeping the drill exciting and playful.
Setup
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Kids stand on their dots in a circle or rows.
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Instructor stands in the centre or in front.
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Ensure all movements are already taught before including them (e.g., breakfall, rolls).
Drill Breakdown
1. Start Position
Kids begin standing on their dots in a ready stance.
Explain the rules simply:
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“If I say Simon says, you do the movement.”
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“If I don’t say Simon says, you stay still.”
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“If you move without Simon says, it means you weren’t listening properly, so stay sharp!”
Make it fun but clear.
2. Basic Commands to Introduce
Start with easy commands so they learn the rhythm:
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“Simon says: Strike 1!”
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“Simon says: Strike 1–2!”
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“Simon says: Kick!”
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“Simon says: Kick then strike!”
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“Simon says: Hands on head!”
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“Simon says: Touch the floor!”
Run these slowly at first.
3. Add Trick Commands
Now start mixing in commands without “Simon says”:
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“Kick!”
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“Fall!”
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“Strike 1–2!”
If kids move, gently point it out with humour:
“Ahh… you’re too fast! Listen closer!”
No punishment – this is discipline training, not elimination.
4. Add Ground Movements (If Taught Prior)
If you already taught breakfalls or rolls, add them:
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“Simon says: Fall!”
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“Simon says: Get up!”
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“Simon says: Roll!”
Kids must only perform them when “Simon says.”
This builds control under unpredictable commands.
5. Add Body-Part Commands
Fun and great for focus:
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“Simon says: Touch your head!”
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“Simon says: Touch your knees!”
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“Simon says: Touch your elbows to the floor!”
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“Simon says: Touch your chest to the floor!”
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“Touch the floor!” – without Simon says
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“Simon says: Stand up!”
This keeps them mentally engaged and physically active.
6. Speed Variations
Change the tempo to develop discipline and response control:
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Slow, calm commands to force patience.
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Rapid-fire commands to challenge listening.
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Mix slow → fast → slow.
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Use enthusiastic voice, big energy when speeding up.
Kids love this part.
7. Final Round – Combo Chaos
Once they understand the rules well:
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Mix strikes, kicks, falls, get-ups, and body-part touches.
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Increase speed gradually.
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Add fake movements (e.g., you crouch but don’t say Simon says).
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Test their discipline lightly.
Ensure it stays fun and safe.
Progressions
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Add “Simon says: Fighting stance!” as a reset command.
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Add small step movements (forward, back, angle).
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Add 3-part combinations (strike–kick–fall).
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Allow a kid to become “Simon” once they show good discipline.
Variations
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“Silent Simon”: Instructor uses only gestures for certain commands.
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“Pad Simon”: Hold a pad and give striking cues with it.
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“Team Simon”: Split class into two groups, each following different Simons.
Coaching Points
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Keep voice energetic and clear.
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Watch technique – don’t let speed ruin form.
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Praise kids who listen, wait, and respond correctly.
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Reinforce self-control: “Don’t move until you hear Simon says.”