A direction game turns a paper landscape into a route someone else can follow. Wild-animal figures act as story characters, while landmarks provide clear reference points. The scene is fictional and does not need to reproduce a real habitat or assume that the assortment includes particular species.
What you need
Choose a few figures from your collection, broad sheets of paper or card, and drawing materials suitable for the child. An adult can help with reading, writing, cutting, or device use where relevant. Begin with a small selection and keep unused pieces stored.
Set up the activity, step by step
1. Build a simple map
Draw a start, a finish, and three recognizable landmarks. Use broad paths and plenty of open space. Keep the selected figures on the map without covering the route signs.
2. Agree on direction language
Begin with ordinary instructions such as move toward the circle and stop beside the square. Add left and right only when appropriate for the participants. A consistent viewpoint matters if those words are used.
3. Give one instruction at a time
Ask the guide to describe the first movement, then let the traveler act. Pause and check the destination. Long chains of instructions can wait until the basic exchange is clear.
4. Add a two-step journey
Combine two familiar instructions and ask the traveler to repeat the plan before moving. Keep mistakes low-stakes. If the route is confusing, improve the wording or the map.
5. Introduce an alternative route
Close one path with a large paper card. Ask the guide to find another journey using the remaining landmarks. Several routes can work if the instructions are consistent.
6. Swap and review
Let the traveler become the guide. Discuss which landmarks and words were most useful. Save the map with a short route card for another session.
Questions to explore together
Choose one question that fits the moment rather than interrupting the story to ask every question. Give the child time to demonstrate an answer with the figures, a drawing, or words.
- Which landmark makes the next move clear?
- Are we using the same viewpoint?
- What could we change if the instruction has two possible meanings?
Try a different version
For a nonverbal version, the guide points to picture cards showing destinations. A cooperative group can split the map and route information between two players so they must communicate before moving the character.
Bring the activity to a useful finish
The route gives language a visible result. Keep the scene manageable and let the players revise instructions rather than treating a misunderstanding as a failure.
Frequently asked question
What if left and right make the directions confusing?
Use named landmarks and agree on a consistent viewpoint. Add directional vocabulary only when it suits the participants.
Choose your play materials
The Dinolino Wild Animal Discovery Egg Playset contains 50 total pieces across figures, scenery, and accessories—not 50 animals. Assortments vary. The egg case is approximately 33 × 23 cm. Small parts: not for children under 3; follow the packaging’s age guidance and supervise play.