15 Listening Activities for Kids to Keep Auditory

Helping kids improve their listening skills can be both fun and beneficial for their cognitive and social development.

Here are 15 engaging listening activities that can strengthen auditory skills, improve focus, and enhance memory in kids.

These activities are perfect for families looking for productive ways to spend time together, whether it´s  rainy day activitites or as after-school activities.

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1. Simon says

Simon Says requires kids to listen attentively and act only when specific words are said, reinforcing their ability to distinguish between relevant and irrelevant information, which enhances focus and impulse control.

It’s also an effective choice for impulse control activities for kids as it encourages patience and quick thinking.

2. Listening walk

This activity promotes mindfulness and helps kids become more aware of their surroundings.

It enhances auditory discrimination, which is the ability to recognize differences in sounds, and fosters a sense of calm as they connect with nature.

A perfect resource to help your child unwind after a busy day is the story “The Jungle Book” on the Storybook app.

This captivating adventure takes your child on a magical jungle journey, helping them relax and settle into a calm bedtime routine. 🌿🐒
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A listening walk can easily become part of  thanksgiving activities for kids where they enjoy the sounds of autumn.

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3. Story circle

Build upon a story by listening to and recalling previous parts.

Story circles improve memory and comprehension. Kids must listen carefully to understand and continue the story, which boosts their language skills and encourages creative thinking.

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4. Sound match

This activity helps kids develop sound recognition and auditory memory. Match recorded sounds with corresponding pictures or objects.

By associating sounds with images or objects, they strengthen their ability to identify and categorize auditory information.

5. Musical chairs

Musical Chairs requires quick reflexes and sharp listening skills, as kids must be alert and responsive to auditory changes.

It also improves coordination and reinforces the concept of taking turns.

6. Follow the leader

This activity supports auditory and visual attention as kids need to observe and listen carefully to follow along.

It also fosters teamwork and physical coordination as they replicate the leader’s actions.

7. Sound scavenger hunt

Locate specific sounds in the environment.

By actively seeking out different sounds, kids practice attentive listening and develop better auditory processing skills.

This activity also builds curiosity and observation skills as they explore their surroundings.

8. Storytelling 

Storytelling enhances language skills, boosts auditory comprehension, and cultivates empathy as kids understand different perspectives.

It also improves memory and creativity as they recall or create narrative elements. 

A wonderful way to create a special bonding time with your child is by sharing “The Magic Box” on the Storybook app.

As you share this peaceful moment together, it becomes a cherished part of your bedtime routine, strengthening your connection every night. 🌟💖
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9. Listening affirmations 

This activity strengthens listening comprehension and helps kids follow multi-step directions.

Translating auditory information into a visual format also enhances spatial awareness and creativity.

A great resource to boost your child’s self-esteem is the uplifting affirmation “You Are Valuable” on the Storybook app.

It’s a perfect way to build confidence and create a special bonding moment. 🌟💖
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This comforting affirmation, paired with a gentle massage, helps your child recognize their unique worth, filling their bedtime routine with love and positivity.

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10. Freeze dance

Freeze Dance encourages quick auditory response and impulse control.

Kids learn to listen carefully for cues and stop immediately, which helps improve reaction times and self-regulation.

11. Echo game

The Echo Game improves auditory memory and recall as kids need to pay attention and accurately reproduce what they hear.

It also builds phonological awareness, which is important for language development.

12. Whisper challenge

This activity fosters careful listening and clear articulation.

It also teaches kids to focus on auditory information in a fun way and understand how communication can change or distort through whispers.

13. Listening to nature

Listening to nature sounds promotes relaxation and mindfulness, helping kids develop an appreciation for the environment.

It’s a calming activity that encourages mindfulness and is great for families on rainy days, as it allows them to connect with nature from the comfort of their home.

14. Guess the sound

This game improves auditory discrimination and sound identification skills.

It encourages curiosity as kids guess different sounds and enhances their knowledge of everyday noises.

15. Rhythm clapping

Rhythm Clapping strengthens auditory memory and the ability to recognize patterns.

It also improves motor coordination and timing, which are valuable for music and language learning.

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What should I look for in a listening activity?

When choosing a listening activity for your child, consider the following:

• Engagement level: Select activities that are fun and interesting to your child. Interactive games, like Simon Says or Musical Chairs, keep kids engaged and willing to participate.

• Skill focus: Determine what specific listening skills you want to improve, such as auditory memory, attention, or sound discrimination. For instance, Guess the Sound focuses on sound identification, while Echo Game enhances memory.

• Difficulty level: Ensure the activity is age-appropriate and matches your child’s current listening ability. Start with simpler tasks and gradually increase complexity as they progress.

How can I keep track of my child’s progress in listening skills?

 The LARA model—Listen, Acknowledge, Respond, and Ask—can help assess active listening skills. Observe how well your child follows this sequence during activities. For example, notice if they’re acknowledging what they hear and responding thoughtfully.

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