Children are not born knowing how to take turns, but this critical skill is necessary in being a good friend and citizen. In learning this skill, they also learn the skills of patience, communication, problem-solving, self-control, and listening.
Here are some things you can do at home to help build this skill!
Play a game!
Board games require lots of patience and turn-taking. They also help children learn how to win and lose gracefully (bonus!). One of my favorites is Hi Ho! Cherry-O! Freeze-dance games can be fun; children have to stop moving and wait for the music to begin so they can move again. Ball games like basketball, catch, and even rolling a ball back and forth are great for large muscle development too!
Build it into Playtime
While you’re playing with your child, incorporate turn-taking. You might use a sand timer or timer on your phone.
“You get to wear the crown for 2 minutes; then, it’s my turn.”
“You stack a block, and then I’ll stack a block.”
“You play with the blue car first, and then we switch, and I get to play with the blue car.”
Build it into Everyday Routines
The things we do every day are perfect opportunities to model and practice turn taking and waiting for a turn.
“You pick what we watch first; then, it’s my turn.”
“You put in the chocolate chips. Then it’s my turn to put in the nuts.”
“I’ll pick the first book we read together; then, it will be your turn to pick.”
Model, Practice, Praise!
Be sure to show your little one what taking turns looks and sounds like with the language above. Practice it every day. When they are successful, praise them! Be specific in your praise for it to really count: “You waited so patiently for your turn!” “It must have been hard not to go first, but you waited until it was your turn!” “You must feel so proud of yourself!”
Here are some ReadyRosie videos that model how taking turns can be integrated into your daily routine.
https://app.readyrosie.com/en/playlists/777209