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The problem: My child interrupts a lot.

Offer better ways to get your attention.

Do:

• When your child wants your attention, have them place their hand on your arm. Squeeze your child’s hand to show that you will respond when you’re done.
• Teach your child to say Excuse me to get someone’s attention. When they interrupt a conversation, have your child say something like, Sorry, you finish; then I’ll talk.

Be glad they want to connect.

Do:

• Be gentle and instructive with young children about the give and take in conversation. They’re only beginning to learn how to manage their impulses. It’s normal for young children to interrupt and important for adults to be understanding.
• Try to recognize the needs of 7- and 8-year-olds. Help them learn how to wait their turn while setting healthy boundaries. Use role playing to help your child practice.

Don’t treat interruptions like a crime.

Say:

• “I see you! (Wink.) Hang on.”
• “Come sit next to me. (Put your arm around them.) I can listen to you soon, after I finish what I’m saying.”
• “It will be a few minutes. What will help you wait?”
• “You look eager to say something — hold that thought for 15 more seconds!”
• “Is this urgent?”
• “I want to hear from you as soon as Grandma finishes her story.” (Smile.)
• “Thanks for waiting quietly and patiently while we’re talking.”

Don’t say

• “Never interrupt me!”
• “You’re being rude!”

Why this approach to interruptions works

Children are often so focused on what they want, they don’t understand that interrupting a conversation can be rude. They may be bubbling over with excitement or eagerness or worry — and that’s hard to contain. Acknowledging them helps calm their feelings. Talk to your child about what warrants an interruption, such as an injury or a knock at the door. Also, teach them how to jump into a conversation by responding to what someone else has said: Wow — that’s a cool story