Hello & Goodbye Game
Here's What To Do
Practice some different ways of saying hello and good-bye with your child.
See how many different kinds of ways of saying hello and goodbye they can think of, like smiling, waving, saying hello, or even fist bumping. Practice with each other, or with your child’s stuffed animals or pets. Don’t be afraid to be goofy and have fun!
Do the same with goodbye, practicing using waves, high-fives or hugs.
Turn it into a game, giving directions to one another on different ways to greet people.
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Find a place free of distractions, stand face to face and take a deep breath together.
Engage:
- "Which greeting do you like best: waving, high-fives, or hugs?"
- "How does it feel when someone smiles and says hello to you?"
Encourage:
- "That was a great hello! You are showing kindness and confidence!"
- "It’s okay if you feel shy sometimes—you can always choose to pause before you greet someone, even if you know them.”
Reflect:
- "How do you feel when you say hello and goodbye to people you know?"
Not quite ready?
Let your child watch as you model greetings with family members and stuffed animals before trying themselves.
Ready for more?
Practice greetings and goodbyes in a real setting, like saying hello to a neighbor or waving to a friend at the park.
As your child masters this skill...
they will feel more confident greeting people in their daily life.