Mastering Tricky Wording: Free Follow Directions Summer Fun Activities

Following Directions Is a Tricky Skill to Learn

For many children, learning to follow directions is far more complex than it appears. What seems like a simple request -“Please put your folder in your backpack and sit on the rug” -actually requires a sophisticated blend of cognitive and language-based abilities working together at the same time.

To successfully follow directions, students must draw upon several foundational skills, including:

• Vocabulary and language comprehension
• Receptive language processing
• Attention and listening skills
• Working memory and mental flexibility
• Attention to detail and sequencing
• Verbal and logical reasoning

Because this skill demands coordination across multiple executive functioning and language processes, many children benefit from explicit instruction and playful practice. With the right strategies, students can strengthen their ability to listen carefully, process information, and carry out directions accurately and confidently—both in the classroom and in everyday life.

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What Happens When Kids Have Trouble Following Directions?

When children struggle to follow directions, the challenges often extend far beyond the task itself. These students may experience impatience, irritation, or misunderstanding from adults and peers. Unfortunately, their difficulties are frequently misinterpreted as laziness, defiance, or lack of effort—when in reality, the child may be doing their best with the skills they currently have.

This misunderstanding can lead to negative experiences such as repeated corrections, embarrassment, or even consequences that feel unfair. Over time, these responses can affect a child’s confidence, emotional well-being, and willingness to take risks in learning. Many children begin to internalize a belief that they are “bad listeners” or “can’t do it,” when what they truly need is support, skill-building, and patient guidance.

By recognizing the underlying skills involved—and teaching them explicitly—we can replace frustration with growth, understanding, and success.

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How Can We Teach This Needed Skill in a Positive Way?

How Can We Teach This Important Skill in a Positive Way?

The most effective way to build direction-following skills is through patience, encouragement, and playful learning. Children learn best when the experience is enjoyable and pressure-free, so weaving skill-building into activities they already love can make a world of difference.

Classic games such as “Simon Says,” obstacle courses, or themed scavenger hunts can strengthen listening, sequencing, and mental flexibility in a fun and natural way. However, planning and preparing these activities can be time-consuming for busy parents and educators.

To make this easier, I created Following Directions: The Fun and Easy Way, a collection of printable, game-like handouts and workbooks designed to build receptive language and direction-following skills through engaging, multisensory activities. I’m happy to offer you free samples, so you can try a few activities and see how enjoyable and effective this approach can be.

I hope you found this blog, ideas, and materials helpful. If you have any thoughts or further ideas, please share them below this post.

Cheers, Dr. Erica Warren