How to Interact with a Young Child

Young children from toddlers to grade school age are each at different levels of development continually growing and changing. By observing their abilities, interests and needs you'll be able to interact with a young child providing fun, learning opportunities and an adult role model.

Instructions

    • 1

      Talk at their level physically. Taller adults seem to tower over kids but if you sit in a chair or on the floor you'll be at their level, making interaction easier.

    • 2

      Respond to their needs for attention. Each child is different; some may cry, become irritable, obnoxious or act out for attention, while others may be more reclusive and solitary. Knowing a child's personality will help determine when he is crying out for attention.

    • 3

      Involve yourself closely in the child's interests and activities. Whether it's a love of drawing or coloring, playing with animals, taking dance or playing little league, showing that you're interested lets the child know that her favorite activities are important.

    • 4

      Communicate directly and openly. Make direct eye contact, talk often and smile when addressing the child. Express warmth and touch through actions and behaviors; be both sensitive and responsive.

    • 5

      Read together or have the child read to you. Most younger children love books and stories. Let the child choose which story they'd like to read together; ask older children if they'd like to play a certain character as you read aloud or even suggest acting the story out together.

    • 6

      Do your homework. Learn all that you can about childhood behavior and development though books, seminars, classes and DVDs.

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