Definition: Turn-taking is the developing social and communication skill of participating in an interaction or shared activity by alternating opportunities to speak, act, use materials, or participate.
Turn-taking can occur during conversation, games, play, classroom activities, and everyday routines. Young children often need time, practice, and adult support to develop this ability.
Why Turn-Taking Matters in Childcare
Turn-taking can support communication, patience, cooperation, social awareness, self-regulation, and participation in group activities.
It is related to sharing but is not identical to it. Turn-taking usually involves alternating access or participation, while sharing can involve jointly using space, materials, ideas, or resources.
Example in a Childcare Setting
Several children want to use the same toy. The caregiver helps establish a simple sequence so each child receives an opportunity to use it while the others participate in another part of the activity.
Related Terms
Cooperative play, sharing, peer interaction, communication skills, self-regulation, conflict resolution, social development.
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