“Excuse Me.”  “Mom I need to tell you something.”  “It’s important.” 

I’m sure you have heard these words from your child while talking with someone else (especially while you are on the phone).  Now is the time to teach your children to wait their turn and not to interrupt other people when they are speaking.

• Tell your child to wait until you are done speaking, and then ask the question.  You can have your child use a ‘signal’ that means he/she wants to talk with you.  For example, a non verbal signal could be to gently squeeze your arm.

• Look your child in the eye and say only once, “I will be with you when I am off the phone.”

• While your child is waiting, hold his/her hand or something similar, as reassurance that you know your child is waiting to talk with you.

• When you are finished with your conversation, be sure to give your child your full attention.  Praise your child for waiting and not interrupting.