Following the Directions....Step by Step

Teachers often ask how they can help their students get better at following directions. After enduring countless lessons during the first few weeks of school on how to be a good listener, many students still struggle with following directions.

Elementary school teachers begin each year going over the rules of the classroom and the importance of following directions the first time they are given.  These rules set the tone of the classroom community. They are the guidelines of good habits and behaviors by which students must abide to be successful learners.  Listening to the teacher and peers is usually number one or at least in the top five on the list.

But following directions remains a challenge for so many. Teachers use different types of reminders for students so that they become accustomed to following our directions. Besides verbal directions, some students need a visual prompt or the directions in written form.  Many students need all three. We ask some learners to repeat the directions and remind them what to do next. Teachers use praise for students who are "caught" doing the right thing and motivational reward systems for those who are trying hard.

Why is following directions so important? Following directions is a life skill that every child needs to acquire. Being able to follow directions simply makes things easier for everyone.  Kids function better in school, sports and other group activities when they are able to carry out instructions.

Why is following directions so difficult? Many children who are not learning disabled have difficulty following even the simplest of directions. Perhaps it's due to the decreasing attention span created by watching television, playing video games, or the use of other technology. Or perhaps kids are simply not used to listening and following directions in their everyday lives.

How can parents help their children get better at following directions?

1.    Provide plenty of opportunity for children to follow directions.  Although it may be faster and easier to do it yourself, children are more likely to become independent when they successfully do things for themselves often.

2.    Model how YOU follow directions. Whether you are assembling something with written directions, following a recipe, or using a GPS while driving, show how you pay attention and are able to accomplish a task.

3.    Make your instructions easy to understand. Break things down into several steps and stay close by to offer help.

4.    Clearly communicate your instructions in a positive way.  Tell them what to do rather than what not to do. Don't be afraid to give multi-step directions. For example, "After you've finished your snack, clean up after yourself and then start your homework."

5.    Ask your child to repeat the directions. This will avoid misunderstandings and help to reinforce what needs to get done. Help older children create a checklist.

6.    Don't nag or yell. When you repeat the directions over and over, children tune out and learn that they do not need to listen until you're screaming.

7.    Provide consequences, both positive and negative. Rewards do motivate children. Negative consequences such as shutting off the computer or tv also encourage children to do things right.

8.    Eliminate distractions.  Turn off the tv or computer when you are giving directions. Show your child how to listen with her whole body: eyes focused on you, body turned toward you, with ears listening.

9.    Catch them doing something good. A hug, a pat on the back and words of praise send a powerful message to your child that you approve.

Children learn best by doing. Let's give them plenty of opportunity to learn by helping them do things for themselves.