How to Get Your Child to Sit Still During Story Time

Story time is great for your child's development. It helps him hone his listening skills, encourages him to use his imagination and teaches him to sit still. However, some children find it harder to stay in one place than others. Don't avoid story time simply because you have a particularly active, impatient child.

Things You'll Need

  • Drink
  • Snack
  • Stuffed toy

Instructions

    • 1

      Take your child to the right story time for her age group. Some may be aimed at a wide age range, such as two to six years. Others are intended for the preschool set. Choose a story time for preschoolers, which is more likely to keep your little one interested. Stories for older children may be too complex for her. Check the minimum age for your chosen story time. Some facilities may not welcome one-year-olds, who are too young to be expected to remain still for the entire story.

    • 2

      Prepare your child for story time. Tell him that another adult (not Mommy or Daddy) will be reading the story, and that there will be lots of other children there. Ask him not to interrupt the story-teller during the story, but reassure him that he'll be able to ask questions after the story is finished.

    • 3

      Get to the venue at least 15 minutes before story time starts. This gives you plenty of time to show your child around, use the toilet and get comfortable. The more relaxed your child is, the more likely he is to stay still during story time.

    • 4

      Provide incentives for your child, like his favorite stuffed toy from home, or allow him to sit on your lap. Find a spot at the back of the room to minimize disruption to others if he does insist on standing up. However, stay away from bookshelves to prevent your child helping himself to books. Tell him quietly that after story time he can lift a book of his choice from the selection.

    • 5

      Set a good example to your child. Sit still and listen to the story. Don't chat to other parents until after story time. Make sure your cell phone is turned off or on silent until you leave the venue.

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