In the end, the investigators noted that toddlers who witnessed adult strangers playing distracted themselves more than those in the control group.
Additional Ways to Make Waiting Less Arduous For Toddlers
Considering the results of the study, we can say that the following might help impatient children regulate their emotions while waiting:
- Give them toys that match their temperament
- Use engaging activities to keep them busy while waiting
But, what other ways can parents do to help their children stay calm while waiting?
1. Help them visualize how long exactly they have to wait
First, let your child know how long they have to wait. However, remember that 5 minutes, 30 minutes, and 1 hour are usually abstract concepts for them. Help them feel and visualize it. Perhaps, show them a clock and let them know they have to wait until the bigger hand is on this or that number.
2. Train your child
Do you expect long waiting times in the near future? If so, it’s best to “train” impatient children as early as possible.
Ask them to wait for a few minutes to start, then gradually increase it to 10 minutes, 15, 30, then an hour. This way, when it’s time for them to wait long periods, they will already be familiar with the concept of waiting.
3. Be prepared
Setting their expectations is important, but so is being prepared. For impatient children, bring toys, activity kits, or snacks. Remember that hunger can make them more irritable!
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