My Turn Your Turn Playground Slide

A playground with a slide that's appropriate for your child's size

At the playground, head to the slide and say "Let's practice taking turns!"

Let your child go first: "Your turn! Climb on up."

After they slide down, announce: "My turn!" and take a turn yourself (yes, really).

If other children are around, narrate the waiting: "We're waiting our turn. She's going now. Almost..."

Count together while you wait: "One, two, three — now it's your turn!"

If they try to cut in front, gently hold them back: "We're waiting. It's almost our turn."

Celebrate every patient moment: "You waited so nicely! That was awesome turn-taking."

Go during less busy times at first. A crowded playground means long waits that may exceed their patience.

Narrate other kids taking turns too: "Look, that boy waited and now it's his turn." Peer modeling is powerful.

If they melt down over waiting, empathize first: "Waiting is hard. I know you really want to go." Then redirect.

Use this turn-taking language everywhere: the water fountain, the swing, the balance beam. Consistency builds the habit.