How to Teach Your Child an Appropriate Way to Get Your Attention

Children need a reliable way to get an adult’s attention. Without one, they may yell, repeatedly interrupt, grab, pull, climb on someone, or use another behavior that has successfully gotten attention before. Choose a communication method your child can realistically use: saying your name, gently tapping, showing a card, signing, gesturing or using AAC. At first, respond quickly when they use the new signal. This helps teach an important connection: “When I communicate this way, people notice me.” Once the skill is established, gradually teach very short waits. A timer or visual can make waiting more understandable. Practice during everyday activities with different trusted adults and in different settings. The objective isn’t to stop a child from wanting attention. Seeking attention and connection is normal. We’re helping them develop an effective and understandable way to ask for it.