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I Spy

Description

A looking-and-guessing game where one player secretly picks something in sight and gives a clue about it, and everyone else looks around to find it. Practises observing and describing what you see.

Cost: FreeBest time: Anytime

Play guide

  1. 1Look around the space and secretly pick something everyone can see.
  2. 2Give one clue about it that is not its colour, describing its shape, the sound it makes, what it is used for, or the sound its name starts with.
  3. 3Let the others look around and guess what you spotted.
  4. 4Whoever guesses it picks the next thing and gives the next clue.
  5. 5Keep taking turns, adding a second clue if a guess is taking a long time.

Success signals

Your child scans the room before guessing rather than blurting. They give a clue that actually points to their chosen object. They take turns choosing and guessing.

If it's tricky

Your child gives a clue that gives it away instantly, or one that fits nothing in view: Help them find a clue that is a middle challenge. A pre-reader struggles with first-sound clues: Steer them toward shape, sound, or use clues instead. Guessers get stuck: Offer a second clue rather than letting frustration build.