How To

How to Teach a Toddler to Follow Directions

By eHow Parenting Editor
Rate: (6 Ratings)

Once children become toddlers, they are ready to learn how to follow directions. This new skill can help improve language development and prepare your child to start preschool.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Gauge if he is ready to follow directions yet. He must be able to remember things and understand language. Most toddlers possess these skills around age 2.

  2. Step 2

    Start out small. Speak clearly and use simple words. Easy commands to try at first would be, "Bring me your cup" or "Hand me your shoe."

  3. Step 3

    Move to more complex tasks. Once the toddler has mastered following simple directions, try multi-layered commands, such as "Bring me your book and sit on the couch for story time."

  4. Step 4

    Keep encouraging her. Each time that she follows your directions, let her know how proud you are. Give plenty of hugs and praise to the child.

  5. Step 5

    Repeat as often as needed. The key to teaching a toddler to follow direction is repetition. Use and explain the same commands until he follows through. Play games like "Follow the Leader" to remind him how to complete the tasks.

Tips & Warnings
  • Don't get frustrated if your toddler does not pick up this new skill right away. Children develop differently and yours may not be ready to learn to follow directions just yet.

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