Turn-Taking in Play
Pick a 慞eople Game� to do or do an activity such as one of those pictured below. Some of your children may be ready to play simple board games too.|
 Car Ramp |
Ball |
Blocks |
Puzzles |
Toys that light up or move |
- Use simple language when you are supporting your child to take a turn in the game e.g. 搈ummy抯 turn�, 揃en抯 turn�, 搘补颈迟颈苍驳�.
- Let your child take a turn in the game first. Then use simple language to say it is your turn and start by taking a quick turn.
- If your child finds it hard to let you have a turn with a toy, gently shield their hands from the toy so you can take a turn. At the same time you do this use simple words e.g. 搘补颈迟颈苍驳�. You could also use the Makaton 憌ait� hand sign to reinforce this:
- Keep control of the toy or pieces of toy to start with. For example, hold all the blocks to build a tower and give your child a block on their turn. If it抯 easier you could keep all of the blocks/puzzle pieces in a bag and each person only gets the bag to choose a piece from when it is their go.
- If your child finds it hard to give up the toy when it抯 somebody else抯 turn give them a 5 second countdown.
- Praise your child when they have waited for their turn e.g. 搘ell done, good waiting�
- When your child is able to wait for their turn, try making the turns slightly longer so your child is learning to wait for longer.
- Encourage your child to show you whose turn it is. This can be by pointing, looking or saying your name. Show your child how to do this e.g. 揃en抯 turn�
- Once your child can take turns with you in a range of games try introducing another child or adult to join in the games.
You can watch some helpful video clips about supporting children with taking turns by clicking and .
Last updated03 Apr 2025