Talking Turns
Here's What To Do
Have your child or children work together to find or create an object to wear or hold when it’s someone’s turn to speak.
After an activity like sharing a meal, watching a movie, or visiting the park, ask everyone in attendance to share their favorite part of the experience while they are wearing or holding the speaking object.
Remind everyone to only speak when they are wearing or holding the speaking object.
Ask follow up questions so children can practice waiting for their turn again.
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Pass around the speaking object so everyone can hold it before the game begins.
Engage:
- "I'm going to ask a question, and everyone will get a turn to answer. But in this game, you're only allowed to talk if you're holding our speaking object. If you have something to say, wait until it's your turn with the speaking object."
- "I've got the speaking object so I'll go first. My favorite part of dinner was hearing about your day. Okay who wants to speak next?"
Encourage:
- Compliment your child’s listening skills when they show focus and attention on the speaker.
- Remind your child or children about holding or wearing the speaking object if they forget to listen to others.
Reflect:
- Ask your child/children questions about what they shared and why; ask your child/children to share their thoughts about what other people shared
Not quite ready?
Do this activity with your child one-on-one before doing it in a big group.
Ready for more?
If your child is doing well with the speaking object, try practicing the same conversation turn-taking without the speaking object.
As your child masters this skill...
They will use polite forms of communication to interact socially with others and follow rules of conversation.