Turn-taking with a favorite toy
1–2 yearsSuccess MindsetMaterials: One favorite toy
Practice very short turn-taking with a toy your child enjoys. You take a turn for five seconds, then your child gets a turn. Use simple language like 'my turn' and 'your turn' to help your child understand the pattern. This teaches waiting while building social skills.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Practice very short turn-taking with a toy your child enjoys. You take a turn for five seconds, then your child gets a turn. Use simple language like 'my turn' and 'your turn' to help your child understand the pattern. This teaches waiting while building social skills.
Why It Works
Turn-taking builds hot self-regulation, which involves managing emotions and motivation. Hot self-regulation at age three predicts achievement later in elementary school, showing different developmental benefits than cool cognitive control (Liew et al., 2010). These early turn-taking experiences lay groundwork for emotional self-control that supports learning as children grow.
Tips for Parents
Start with turns that last just three to five seconds.
Use a timer or count out loud so your child can predict when their turn comes.
Stay calm and encouraging if your child struggles to wait.
Materials Needed
One favorite toy
Learning Methods
Language-Rich EnvironmentMontessori Practical Life Activities
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