Good Listener
Parent gives simple directions and tasks to test whether the child follows them correctly, completes a task independently, maintains attention without distraction, and stops when told no or stop. Covers four self-regulation and executive function milestones at 22-36 months.
Opens a guided voice session in TogetherTime.
What you'll need
Have a small age-appropriate play item ready — stacking blocks, a container with a few objects to put in, or a simple puzzle piece. Clear a small floor or table space so your child has room to move and play.
How it works
- 1~60s
Give your child two or three simple one-step directions, one at a time — wait for each to be completed before giving the next. Try things like: 'Put the block on the table.' 'Bring me your shoe.' 'Give that to Daddy.' Say each one clearly, once. Does your child follow each direction correctly? Does they need you to repeat it or show it first? Tell me what happened.
Watch for: Child follows a simple verbal direction correctly on first hearing
- 2~90s
Now give your child a simple open task and step back. Say: 'Here are the blocks — can you build something?' or 'Put these in the bowl.' Then stop engaging completely for about 90 seconds — don't comment, don't help, just observe from a distance. Does your child keep going with the task? Does they finish it or move on to something else? Does your child look for you to re-engage? Tell me what they did.
Watch for: Child completes or meaningfully sustains an assigned task without adult engagement
- 3~30s
While your child is playing — not in a dangerous situation, just reaching for or doing something ordinary — say clearly once: 'Stop.' or 'No, not that.' Say it in your normal firm voice, not urgent. Watch: does your child pause or stop the action, even briefly? Then what happens — they resumes after a moment? Ignores it? Looks at you? Tell me exactly.
Watch for: Child pauses or stops action at least briefly when told no or stop