Take turns with toys
2–3 yearsSuccess MindsetMaterials: Any favorite toy or activity
Practice turn-taking with a favorite toy or activity. Use simple language like 'your turn' and 'my turn' while playing together. Start with very short turns of 30 seconds to one minute. You can use a timer or count to 10 together to make turns more concrete and predictable.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Practice turn-taking with a favorite toy or activity. Use simple language like 'your turn' and 'my turn' while playing together. Start with very short turns of 30 seconds to one minute. You can use a timer or count to 10 together to make turns more concrete and predictable.
Why It Works
Turn-taking provides natural, repeated practice with delaying gratification in a supportive context. Language development at this age enables children to use self-talk for control, saying things like 'my turn soon.' Research demonstrates that children who develop better self-control skills show significantly better life outcomes, including academic achievement and social skills (Mischel, Shoda, & Peake, 1988).
Tips for Parents
Keep turns very short at first so success comes easily.
Praise your child specifically when they wait for their turn.
Model waiting yourself and use self-talk like 'I'm waiting for my turn' to demonstrate patience.
Materials Needed
Any favorite toy or activity
Learning Methods
Interactive Play-Based LearningSongs, Stories, and RhymesSocial Learning Through Peers
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