Monkey See, Monkey Do

A classic follow-the-leader game where kids instantly mirror the leader's moves-perfect for burning energy, sharpening focus, and building confidence in small groups.

Opens your browser's print dialog so you can print or save as PDF.

Scenario: in_person
Group Size: small
Duration: quick
kids
movement
energizer
no-props

Video Example

Introduction

Monkey See, Monkey Do is a movement-based icebreaker in which one child (the "monkey" or leader) demonstrates quick actions, faces, or sounds while everyone else mirrors them in real time. The game combines brain breaks, laughter, and coordination practice in just a few minutes.

Why This Works as an Icebreaker

  • Breaks the ice immediately by getting everyone moving and laughing
  • Strengthens nonverbal communication and group focus
  • Requires almost no setup or props-ideal for classrooms or camps
  • Highlights each child's personality when they take a turn leading
  • Provides facilitators with insight into kids' confidence and engagement

When to Use This Game

Ideal Contexts

  • Classroom brain breaks
  • Birthday parties or camp warm-ups
  • PE warm-up drills
  • ESL/EFL lessons for teaching action verbs

Group Size

Min: 2 | Ideal: 5-15 | Max: 30

Requirements

Time Required

  • Per person: ~30 seconds per leader
  • Total: 5-10 min
  • Prep time: No prep

Setup

Clear an open area so everyone can stretch their arms and move safely without bumping into each other.

Materials

  • Optional: upbeat background music or the children's song "Monkey See, Monkey Do"
  • Optional: a picture book about mimicry to bridge into story mode

How to Play

1.

Form a circle or line

1 min

Have kids stand in a semicircle or loose line facing the facilitator. Explain the rule: "Whatever the leader does, you copy immediately like a mirror."

  • TipPlay a short intro of the "Monkey See Monkey Do" song to set the rhythm for younger kids.
2.

Leader shows the moves

2-3 min

The chosen leader performs quick actions (clap, jump, spin, make a face, add sound effects). Keep motions continuous so the group stays engaged.

  • TipStart with slow actions, then gradually add faster or sillier combinations to challenge reaction time.
3.

Rotate leaders

Remaining time

After 3-5 actions, the current leader taps the next "monkey" to take over. Continue until every child has led or time runs out.

  • TipInvite shy kids to try one simple move (like pulling a funny face) so they experience leading without pressure.

Outcomes & Benefits

Key Benefits

  • Improves gross motor coordination and body awareness
  • Trains attention and rapid response through observation
  • Creates a playful environment where mistakes are welcome

Facilitator Insights

  • Notice who jumps in confidently versus who hesitates-use that info to balance future activities.
  • Watch whether kids mirror the leader directly or simply copy nearby peers; it reveals engagement levels.

Strategies & Tips

Simon Says twist
Add a cue such as "Monkey Says"-kids only copy when the leader says the phrase first. Anyone who moves without the cue performs a funny forfeit.
Emotion mirror
Switch from full-body motions to facial expressions or emotions (happy, surprised, sleepy) to build SEL vocabulary.
Storybook mode
Read a picture book about animals mimicking each other. Each time a character moves, the whole group mirrors the action.

General Tips

  • Keep movements safe for indoor spaces-avoid running or heavy contact.
  • Use the game to reinforce action verbs (touch, stomp, stretch) in language lessons.

Facilitation Tips

Moderation

  • Pause if motions become unsafe or chaotic; reset with a calm clap or countdown.
  • If energy spikes too high, insert a slow-motion round to regain control.

Inclusion & Safety

  • Offer seated or upper-body-only options for kids with mobility limits.
  • Check the floor for obstacles and ensure there is ample spacing.

Virtual/Remote Adaptation

  • On video calls, pin the current leader's video so everyone can see clearly.
  • Use gallery mode or spotlight switches so every child gets a chance to lead.

Debrief & Reflection

Discussion Questions

  • Which move was the trickiest to copy?
  • Do you prefer leading or following? Why?
  • What happens if we stop watching the leader closely?

Wrap-Up Tips

  • Finish with one big group pose or animal sound to celebrate the shared silliness.