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Language4 min read
Understanding language + following instructions: part 1
Following instructions is a vital skill for learning and daily life. It starts with simple, single-step directions.
Following instructions is a vital skill for learning and daily life — at home, in the classroom and on the playground. It begins with understanding simple, single-step directions before building up to longer, more complex ones.
Start simple and build success
- Use clear, short instructions: 'Get your shoes.'
- Gain attention first — say your child's name and wait for eye contact.
- Pair words with gestures or pointing if needed.
- Give your child time to process before repeating.
- Praise the effort when they follow through.
💡 Tip
If an instruction isn't followed, try rephrasing rather than repeating the exact same words. A small change can make all the difference.
Once single-step instructions are reliable, you can gradually add more steps and more language. We'll explore complex, multi-step instructions in part 2.
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