![A game to celebrate National Simultaneous Storytime](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/b58f30_13c232e0a69e483b9b836101d4a8bebf~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_980,h_551,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/b58f30_13c232e0a69e483b9b836101d4a8bebf~mv2.jpeg)
With National Simultaneous Storytime just around the corner, we have created a special game that not only entertains but also hones short-term memory skills. Inspired by Aura Parker’s enchanting Bowerbird Blues, and her use of a wide range of blues, this game is a modern twist on the classic Tray Game.
![A red tray with 8 items on it](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/b58f30_e1cfbf464a574933b7a818d5036cca0d~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_980,h_551,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/b58f30_e1cfbf464a574933b7a818d5036cca0d~mv2.png)
This game is loads of fun and a fantastic way to give your kids a fun way to practice using their short-term memory and a way to engage with the story beyond the pages of the book. Using an assortment of items reminiscent of those found in Bowerbird Blues, youngsters are prompted to engage in a memory exercise, recalling and identifying specific elements from a tray of objects. An item is removed children must try to correctly identify the missing item.
![A digitally created tray with 15 blue items](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/b58f30_c9bfd15b8dd3470ea61e3754b6122d63~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_980,h_551,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/b58f30_c9bfd15b8dd3470ea61e3754b6122d63~mv2.jpeg)
As they engage with this game, each player’s brains is hard at work, flexing memory muscles to try to recall the items quickly and accurately. This fusion of entertainment and cognitive development means that while children immerse themselves in the game's narrative and visual stimuli, their minds are actively engaged in the process of memorisation and retrieval. This harmonious blend ensures that learning is an enjoyable and seamlessly integrated aspect of play and it doesn't feel like learning at all!
With vibrant illustrations and captivating gameplay, kids will be having so much fun they won't even realise they're practicing an essential skill. It's the perfect blend of entertainment and education, designed to make learning an adventure they'll never forget. Prepare to witness the transformative impact of play-based learning as children's short-term memory skills flourish and evolve.
To learn more about the Bowerbird Blues Tray Game watch the video below or jump into the National Simultaneous Storytime resource page and grab some of our other activities to do with your children. Together, let's harness the power of playful learning to nurture and develop young minds, ensuring that education remains not only effective but also enjoyable.