As you put groceries away, involve your child by saying something like, “The frozen food goes on the shelf,” or “I’m putting the paper towels in the refrigerator.” Do they catch your “mistake?” Encourage them to share with you their thinking: Where should those items go and why? Then let them take a turn trying to trick you!

See what your child is learning

When you make playful mistakes, you encourage your child to listen closely and use what they already know to correct you. By asking them to share their thinking, you help them practice stepping back to think before answering, a skill that requires focus and self-control.


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