Waiting and Taking Turns

In a community, we must sometimes wait for things we want. Learning to wait peacefully is a vital social skill that requires practice.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Grace & Courtesy
• Level: Ages 3-5

Objectives

• Learn to wait patiently
• Develop impulse control
• Practice respect for others
• Build community awareness

Materials

• Popular classroom material for practice
• Wait list or turn-taking system

Instructions

1. Scenario: Another child is using material you want. 2. Demonstrate observing and waiting nearby. 3. Show how to ask: 'May I use that when you're finished?' 4. Practice waiting—find other work or observe. 5. Discuss feelings while waiting. 6. Role-play receiving the material graciously.

Educator tip

Help children identify waiting strategies: observe, choose other work, take deep breaths. Acknowledge successful waiting.

Assessment

Child waits appropriately, asks politely, and accepts turns graciously.

More from Practical Life

• Apologizing and Forgiving
• Flower Arranging
• Folding Napkins
• Greeting a Visitor
• Using a Needle and Thread
• Preparing a Snack: Spreading
• Caring for Classroom Pets
• Watering Plants