Sleeping monster
Pretend to snooze while secretly waiting to pounce with a tickle when they get too close - pure squealy fun!
This super simple power-reversal game is all about giggles and connection - and you get to play it lying down! Great for low energy days.
Pretend you’re a sleeping monster, eyes closed, arm outstretched. When your child creeps in for a closer look, surprise them with a playful tickle or grab! It’s delightfully silly, taps into their love of “almost caught!” games, and strengthens your bond through laughter.
Perfect for easing tension, reconnecting after a tricky moment, or just injecting...
Prep
No setup needed! Just get into your best fake-sleeping position and let the mischief begin.
Play
Step 1:
Lie down, pretend to sleep, and hold your hand out.
Step 2:
Invite your child to come close - but shhh! the monster might wake up…
Step 3:
If they get close - surprise them by making a (gentle) grab with your hand!
Step 4:
And if they get too close? Time for a tickle or silly "gotcha!".
Step 5:
Take turns being the sleeping monster if they want a go!
Extend
Sound effects: Add some dramatic snoring or monster mumbling.
Sneaky challenges: Set a “mission” like retrieving a toy without waking the monster.
Themed monsters: Be a robot, dinosaur, or alien monster depending on their current obsessions.
