Turn-Taking Games
To develop understanding of turn-taking and sharing through structured play.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Personal, Social & Emotional
- Learning area: Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Waits for turn with support
- Begins to share with others
- Follows simple game rules
- Shows understanding of fairness
Materials
- Turn-taking games
- Timer or sand timer
- Visual turn cards
- Favourite resources to share
Instructions
UNDERSTANDING DEVELOPMENT: Two-year-olds are developmentally egocentric—they genuinely struggle to understand that others want things too. Turn-taking is learned through practice and support, not lecturing. Be patient!
STARTING SIMPLE: Begin with short turn-taking activities with an adult: rolling a ball back and forth, taking turns putting blocks on a tower, passing a toy back and forth. Narrate: 'My turn... your turn... my turn... your turn!'
USING VISUAL TIMERS: Sand timers make waiting visible. 'When the sand runs out, it's your turn.' Children can see time passing, which is easier than abstract waiting. Choose appropriate lengths—30 seconds to start.
CREATING TURN-TAKING GAMES: Structured games help: 'Pop-Up Pirate', 'Hungry Hippos', simple board games. Games have built-in turn structure. Say 'Well done waiting! Now it's YOUR turn!'
SUPPORTING SHARING: Sharing is harder than turn-taking. Don't force children to share mid-play—this feels unfair. Instead, teach 'When you're finished, Elena can have a turn. I'll help you remember.' Use timers for high-demand items.
MODELLING WITH PUPPETS: Use puppets to demonstrate: 'Teddy wants a turn with the truck. How can we help him wait? Teddy, it's not your turn yet. Let's find something else while we wait!'
PRAISING WAITING: Catch children waiting and praise specifically: 'You're waiting so patiently for the swing! That's really kind. Your body is calm even though waiting is hard.' This reinforces the behaviour you want.
PROBLEM-SOLVING CONFLICTS: When conflicts arise (which they will!), guide resolution: 'You both want the car. That's tricky. What can we do? Could you take turns? Could you find another car?' Teach problem-solving, not just compliance.