08/22/2026
A child can hear every word you say and still not understand what you need them to do.
Following an instruction requires more than listening. Children need to understand what has been said, remember it, work out what is expected and then act on it. Long or vague instructions can make this much harder.
Phrases like “behave yourself”, “get ready” or “sort out that mess” may seem obvious to an adult, but they can leave a child unsure about exactly what they should do first.
This can be even harder when children are tired, distracted, upset or overwhelmed. What looks like ignoring, refusing or being difficult may sometimes be a child who needs clearer information and a little more time to process it.
Being specific, keeping instructions manageable and telling children what we want them to do can reduce frustration for everyone.
Sometimes, instead of asking "Why aren’t they listening?”, a more useful question is:
“Have I made it clear what I need them to do?”
FREE BE SPECIFIC WHEN TALKING TO CHILDREN POSTER
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