Do This Then That!
Here's What To Do
Create three-step directions for your child to follow; get silly and have fun with this!
Preface each command with “do this…then that…then that...” as you model the multi-step directions. Example: Say “do this” while tapping your nose and say “then that” while marching in place and "then that" when spinning in a circle.
Try not to repeat the directions; instead encourage your child to remember all three steps on their own.
If your child is successfully remembering 3-step directions, try 4-step directions (do this, then that, then that, then that).
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Wiggle, shake, and stretch your bodies to warm up for the game. Say “are we ready to play?”
Engage:
- "Can you do this (hop on one foot), then that (stick out your tongue), then that (raise arms up to the sky)?"
- "Can you remember what comes next?"
Encourage:
- "Awesome remembering and direction following!"
- "Oops! There was something that comes between the jump and the spin. Do you need me to repeat the three steps again?"
Reflect:
- Ask your child if it's tricky or easy to remember 3 steps in a row.
Not quite ready?
Play the game with two-step directions instead.
Ready for more?
Play the game with five-step directions, or make the directions more complicated (wave your right hand, take 2 steps forward, etc.).
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to remember and follow 3-4 directions.