As children grow, they will very quickly learn there are time when their needs will not immediately be met. As family members, it's important to prepare children for this. However, there are times when these circumstances occur naturally. Waiting for a story while Dad gives the baby a bath, waiting for a snack or waiting for a grown-up to finish a phone call. These situations call on children to balance their own needs and desires with those of others. When these situations arise...
- Acknowledge your child's efforts. Say "It is so hard to wait, you are being so patient. Thank you."
- Give your child coping strategies. Say "Draw a picture of your snack while you wait. You can choose a book while waiting for storytime."
