To get along, they need a key trait—patience.

It takes patience to wait one’s turn and keep from interrupting others when they’re talking. Doing these things will help your preschooler learn patience:

• Be patient yourself. Don’t tap your fingers or curse when you’re stuck in traffic, for instance. Say something like, “It looks like we’re going to be late. Let’s use the time to play a guessing game.”

• Begin reading books beyond the preschool level with your child. Read a few pages or a chapter. Let her wait for a day before continuing the story.

• Play board games. Your child will learn something else besides waiting her turn that’s vital to getting along—that she can’t always win.

• Spend time with your child in nature. Watch the sun rise and set. Wait patiently for fish to bite.

• Bake together. Watch the dough rise.

• Help your child save money for something she wants instead of buying it right away.

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