Waiting Games
To develop the ability to wait and delay gratification through structured, supportive games.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Personal, Social & Emotional
- Learning area: Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Waits for short periods
- Shows improving impulse control
- Enjoys waiting games
- Celebrates own patience
Materials
- Sand timers
- Musical statues music
- Ready-steady-go games
- Stickers
Instructions
PLAYING READY-STEADY-GO: 'Ready... steady... WAIT... are you waiting? ... GO!' Varying the pause builds impulse control. Children who jump the gun are learning—'Oops! Not quite! Let's try again!'
MUSICAL STATUES: 'When the music stops, FREEZE! Can you stay completely still? Amazing! You're so good at waiting!' Make waiting a game, not a punishment.
USING SAND TIMERS: 'Watch the sand fall down. When it's all at the bottom, you can have your turn. Can you watch and wait? You're so patient!'
CELEBRATING PATIENCE: 'You waited so patiently! That must have been hard because you really wanted a turn. I'm proud of your waiting. Well done!'