Page 66 - Routines-Based Early Intervention Guidebook
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Routines-Based Early Intervention Guidebook
Toys and Playtime 5
Speech and Language Session Focus
Turn-Taking
The idea that communica on is the process of taking turns may
be more obvious to service providers than it is to parents. Parents with
typical language skills may never have compared speech to throwing
balls or tennis matches. A discussion about joint turn‐taking is an
excellent way to compliment a mother and father on their paren ng
abili es. Turn‐taking inherently makes sense and usually already exists in communica ve
a empts and games like ball rolling. Parents should be encouraged to use turn‐taking in other
play ac vi es as well and incorporate simple language, such as, “My turn” and “Your turn.”
What we as interven onists know is that using a ball encourages joint turn‐taking
because the ac vity is controlled by having a single element (i.e., the ball). The ac vity will
stop unless someone takes a turn. Other play ac vi es should likewise be controlled by the
parent. For example, in playing blocks, all blocks can be in a bucket and each person can only
take one out at a me. While dressing a doll, all clothes can be hidden and each person can
choose one piece of clothing at a me. Snacks, such as raisins, can be set on the table one at a
me and each person takes one when it is his or her turn. Turn‐taking is elementary but it is
not so simple that it should be overlooked. A parent who can successfully mediate control of
joint turn‐taking can successfully encourage communica on.
Today’s Plan
Discuss turn‐taking and iden fy where it is already taking place throughout the day (e.g.,
gree ngs, play, games). Encourage fun turn‐taking ac vi es that:
Include one object or gesture.
Do not last long or become boring.
Include a third or fourth older person when possible.
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