The Power of Waiting

There is often the temptation to speak and answer for our little ones.

Waiting is SO SO hard.

Think about a conversation you recently had with your little guy or gal. When engaging them in a conversation or holding a conversation, research shows that providing three seconds or more of "wait time" improved ability to respond and response quality (Rowe, 1986). 

What can we do?

Even though it's hard and takes a great deal of mindfulness and restraint, holding off on asking multiple questions, statements, or requests will allow for more "wait time" and give the opportunity to respond or ask a question.

Here’s how to do it...

1. Stop

2. Take a breath

3. Count to 5

4. Count to 5 again

5. Ask an open ended question (e.g. "what do you think we should do now?")

#speech #speechtherapy #preschool #mindfulness #Apraxia #SLP