Modeling
By demonstrating appropriate behavior, teachers show
children how to accomplish a task and use the self-regulation
needed to complete it.
For Lucy, Melissa modeled important language and social
skills: she indicated her intention to join the activity by pulling up a chair. She then asked Tricia a question about
her activity, waited for an answer, and responded positively.
For Tricia, Melissa modeled how to invite a reluctant
observer to play: she turned her attention to Lucy, offered
a play invitation, handed her an object, and asked her to
make a play decision. When Lucy shrugged, Tricia followed
Melissa’s lead and suggested a way Lucy could participate.