Prompting and Modelling or Imitating

Children are natural imitators. From their earliest days, they watch the people around them and learn by copying what they see. This makes modeling the right behavior one of the most powerful parenting tools available.

Modelling

When you demonstrate a skill or behavior, your child sees exactly what is expected. If you want your child to speak politely, demonstrate polite speech. If you want them to handle frustration calmly, show them how you do it.

Prompting

Prompting is giving your child a cue or reminder to perform a desired behavior. This can be verbal ("It's time to say thank you"), physical (a gentle touch to redirect), or visual (pointing to where shoes belong).

How to use prompting and modelling effectively

• Model the behavior first before asking your child to do it
• Use the least intrusive prompt necessary – start with verbal before physical
• Fade prompts over time as the child becomes more independent
• Praise the child immediately when they perform the behavior correctly

Together, prompting and modelling create a powerful learning environment that supports your child's development in a positive and encouraging way.