It Can Take Kids 6-10 Seconds to Process the Information You Say

Here is a little activity for you to do.  State a request that you often say to your child. 

“Put on your shoes.”  Count to 10 in your head.

“Pick up your cars.”  Count to 10 in your head.

“Hand me that cup.”  Count to 10 in your head.

“Give the doll to your sister.”  Count to 10 in your head.

“Throw that into the garbage.”  Count to 10 in you head.

Wow!  Did it feel like you were waiting a long time?  Well, that is how long it can take a child to hear the words and then process the information.  Slow down and wait!  Give your child time to hear, think, process, and respond.

 

-Mary Bartusek, Parent Educator