Wait for the surprise
2–3 yearsSuccess MindsetMaterials: Cup or small blanket, small toys or snacks
Hide a small toy or snack under a cup or blanket. Before revealing it, count to five or sing a short song together. This creates anticipation and brief waiting practice in a fun context. Let your child help count or sing to make them an active participant in the waiting.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Hide a small toy or snack under a cup or blanket. Before revealing it, count to five or sing a short song together. This creates anticipation and brief waiting practice in a fun context. Let your child help count or sing to make them an active participant in the waiting.
Why It Works
Anticipation paired with brief waiting teaches self-control in a low-stakes, playful context. The game format makes repeated practice enjoyable rather than frustrating. Language development at this age enables children to use counting and self-talk as tools for managing the wait. Research shows that self-regulation skills at age 3, particularly cool self-regulation, predict academic achievement in the early school years (Liew, Chen, & Hughes, 2010).
Tips for Parents
Keep the wait very brief so it stays fun and manageable.
Vary what you hide to keep the game interesting and engaging.
Let your child take turns hiding things for you to practice waiting yourself.
Materials Needed
Cup or small blanket, small toys or snacks
Learning Methods
Interactive Play-Based LearningSongs, Stories, and RhymesSocial Learning Through Peers
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