Kids do best with one short phrase they can repeat, not a long explanation. Here are two solid options — both work, but different kids need different styles. Option A 🗣️ “Can I have a turn when you’re done?” ✔️ Best for: shy kids, kids who interrupt, kids who need structure Option B 🗣️ “That looks fun — how do you play?” ✔️ Best for: kids who want to connect but don’t know how If they get ignored: - “I’m going to watch for a sec—tell me when I can join.” - “What role can I be?” Question: Which one sounds more like your child right now — A or B? Drop the letter and their age, and tell me where they’re practicing (playground, school, or playdates).

Toddlers (1–3) Goal: parallel play → “next to them” play What to practice: - “Watch + copy” (do what they’re doing nearby) - Gentle approach + friendly face - Simple sharing phrases Kid scripts: - “Play?” - “My turn?” - “More?” - “Can I have one?” Parent prompt in the moment: - “Let’s watch… what are they doing?” - “We can play next to them first.” - “Hands gentle. One word: ‘Play?’” If ignored: - “Okay, we can play here.” (model calm + stay close) _________________________________________________________ Preschool (3–5) Goal: enter play without taking over What to practice: - Watch 10 seconds - Ask one question - Join the same theme (don’t change the game) Kid scripts: - “What are you playing?” - “Can I play too?” - “Can I be the helper?” - “Where should I start?” Parent prompt: - “Watch first. What’s the game?” - “Pick one line and try it.” - “Join their idea first—then you can add later.” If they say no: - “Okay. Can I watch?” - “Maybe next turn?” _________________________________________________________ Elementary (6–10) Goal: timing + teamwork + flexibility What to practice: - Look for an “open spot” (pause in the game) - Offer a role that helps - Try again once if ignored Kid scripts: - “Do you want another player?” - “Can I join next round?” - “What role do you need?” - “Can I be on your team?” Parent prompt: - “Pause. Watch. Then ask.” - “If they don’t answer, try one more time—then move on.” - “You can join first, suggest later.” If ignored: - “I’ll wait for the next round.” - “Who can I ask to join?” _________________________________________________________ Teens (11–17) Goal: low-pressure entry (no “can I play?” vibe) What to practice: - Comment + question (easy opener) - “Mind if I…?” instead of “Can I…?” - Join through shared task (not spotlight) Teen scripts: - “What are you guys doing?” - “Mind if I join?” - “Is there room for one more?” - “How do you play?” / “What’s the rule?” - “Need a partner?”

How do you usually handle big feelings at home or in the classroom? In this video, I break down why kids get angry, what’s happening in their developing brains, and simple coping strategies we can teach them to calm down, communicate, and feel understood. It’s practical, gentle, and packed with tools you can start using today. https://youtu.be/_UAUfBDc6es