“Mashed Potatoes” – A Silly Listening Game

Did you know that listening comprehension is directly related to reading comprehension? It’s true! But helping your child build listening comprehension skills doesn’t have to be boring.

Here is a fun—and sort of silly—way to work on listening skills with your children.

Instructions for “Mashed Potatoes”

1. Download and print the mashed potatoes, question cards, and serving spoon.
2. Cut out the activity pieces and laminate for extra durability.
3. Gather around the table and get ready to giggle!

Playing “Mashed Potatoes”

Place the question cards in a pile on the table.

Explain to your child that you’re going to ask some questions, but that the answer to every question must be mashed potatoes!

Read a question to your child.

What do you use to wash your hair?

And wait for the silly answer.

Mashed potatoes!

As you play, encourage your child to visualize each silly scenario as he answers the questions. For some added fun, your child can pretend to eat a big spoonful of mashed potatoes as she answers each question.

More Ways to Play

Don’t be afraid to get silly with this activity. Here are a few additional ideas:

• Have your child help you think of more questions to ask.
• Instead of answering mashed potatoes, come up with some other silly answers such as broccoli soup, chocolate pudding, or applesauce.
• Play this game at the lunch table and take a bite of real mashed potatoes after each question is answered!

Is there a silly listening game that you enjoy playing with your child? I would love to hear about it in the comments below!