Taking Turns in a Conversation

My name is {{childName}}, and this is my story about talking with other people. In a conversation, one person talks, and then the other person talks. It goes back and forth, one turn at a time — a little talking, a little listening. Most people take turns like this when they talk together.

While the other person is talking, it is my turn to listen. I can look towards them and nod to show I am listening. Listening carefully helps me learn what the other person is thinking about. People usually feel happy when someone listens to them.

When the other person pauses, it is my turn to share an idea. I try to wait for my turn instead of talking over them. Waiting can be hard sometimes, and that is okay — I am practising. Taking turns helps everyone feel heard.

I can also ask a question back, like 'What did you do?' Asking about the other person keeps the conversation going. It shows them I am interested. Conversations get easier and easier the more I practise.