There’s a reason kids like that show. They like the attention he shows them. They like the exciting tone of voice he uses. They like the way he breaks everything down to be easy to understand for young minds.
He does not yell, use sarcasm, or expect more than they can give.
And I find when I am trying to get my toddler to do something for me, I have a better success rate when I talk like Steve.
“Benjamin, go put your sock away.” This rarely works.
“Benjamin! Hi! Can you find your sock??” (He looks at sock)
“Great! Can you put your hand on your sock??” (He puts his hand on the sock.)
“Awesome! Do you know where your dirty clothes hamper is?? I bet you do!!!” (He points to his room)
“You’re amazing! Grab the sock and go put it away, buddy!!” (He skips off to obey.)
*Much applause and cheering ensues*
Hey, it works. And sometimes, you just need something that works.
Good point! Sometimes it takes creativity to get things done without the fuss.
Sooo true. If I ask or tell the kids (ages 3.5 & 1.5) to clean up their toys, it harldy ever works. But if I get down on the floor and start singing Barney’s clean-up song while I pick up a few things, they come rushing over to help. And I don’t even have to ask them!
This is great! I tried it with my four-year-old today. He likes Blues Clues (except in the UK, “Steve” is “Kevin” – I know; why?!) He stared at me as if I’d lost my mind. It was hilarious… but I’m going to keep trying! 🙂
Summary: keep communication simple
This is perfect advice. Not only do children relate to this type of dialogue they are entertained by it and respond very favorably to it. Thank you for your wonderful insights.
Brilliant advice 😀
and then break out into a little song and dance. They’ll love it. don’t forget your handy dandy notebook!
My little man doesn’t watch Blue Clues, but I’ve seen my share of episodes from my days of watching friend’s kids. I tried this with my little man this morning and it was most definately successful! I’ve always been around kids, but learning to deal with your own is hugely different! Thanks for these toddler tips!
Neither of mine watch it either, as absolutely no television waves hit our antennae, but I must have seen it at Grandma’s? 🙂 Glad it worked for you!
😀 Are you trying to suggest I’m wordier than I need to be? Great summaries, though!
Haha, that’s something Olivia would have done when she was two. 🙂 My little boy, though, is full of crazy himself, so he’s fine with witnessing it in me as well.