Turn-taking practice
2–3 yearsFamily ConnectionNo materials needed
Take turns choosing what to do next during your activity time. You pick one thing, then your child picks the next. Honor each person's turn fully. If your child picks something you would not choose, do it anyway with enthusiasm. This shows respect goes both ways and teaches reciprocity in relationships.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Take turns choosing what to do next during your activity time. You pick one thing, then your child picks the next. Honor each person's turn fully. If your child picks something you would not choose, do it anyway with enthusiasm. This shows respect goes both ways and teaches reciprocity in relationships.
Why It Works
Taking turns teaches that respect is mutual, not one-sided. Reciprocal trust and respect established early predict lower rates of parent-child conflict and better cooperation during challenging developmental periods, with trust-based relationships showing greater resilience (Collins & Steinberg, 2006). Learning that both people's preferences matter builds balanced, respectful relationships.
Tips for Parents
Be genuinely enthusiastic about your child's choices even if they seem repetitive to you.
If your child struggles to wait for their turn, count down or use a timer to make waiting concrete.
Celebrate when your child respects your turn too.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Interactive Play-Based LearningSocial Learning Through PeersSymbolic and Pretend Play
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