Taking Turns is a free social story for children that helps teach turn-taking, waiting, and patience in everyday situations. It uses clear language and visual supports to explain how and why we take turns, making it ideal for preschoolers, autistic children, and those with social communication needs.
This resource is perfect for children who find it difficult to wait or become upset when it is not their turn. It is not about sharing objects at the same time – it is about waiting for your turn to use something or take part in an activity.
What’s Inside This Social Story PDF?
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Explains turn-taking in simple terms – Helps children understand that taking turns means “I go, then you go, then I go again.”
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Teaches waiting skills – Shows that waiting is part of taking turns and offers ideas to stay calm while waiting.
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Validates feelings – Acknowledges that it can be hard to wait and that feeling frustrated or sad is okay.
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Encourages kind behaviour – Reminds children not to grab or shout, and to use words like “Can I have a turn next?”
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Promotes positive play – Explains that turn-taking makes playtime more fun and helps others feel happy and included.
How Can This Social Story Be Used?
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In early years settings and classrooms – A useful resource for group times, play areas, and transitions.
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At home with young children – Helps parents support turn-taking during games, sharing devices, or waiting in line.
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With children who have autism or ADHD – A helpful tool for children who benefit from clear structure, visuals, and repetition.
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In therapy and behaviour support plans – Ideal for professionals supporting social-emotional development and self-regulation.
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As a visual reminder – Keep a printed copy near play areas or calm corners to support children in the moment.
This turn-taking social story supports children in learning how to wait, take turns, and play cooperatively with others. It is a gentle way to introduce the idea that we all get a turn, and that waiting calmly is a skill that helps us make friends and have fun.
FREE PDF DOWNLOAD OF TAKING TURNS – A PRINTABLE SOCIAL STORY FOR KIDS LEARNING PATIENCE
VIDEOS
Taking Turns (Animated Social Story)
This animated social story helps children understand why taking turns is important in everyday situations. It supports social development through clear visuals and simple language, making it ideal for home or classroom use.
Sesame Street: Two-Headed Monster Takes Turns
The Two-Headed Monster from Sesame Street shows children how to take turns in a fun and silly way. This short video helps young viewers understand turn-taking through laughter and friendship.
Taking Turns Speaking
This video teaches children how to take turns speaking and listening during conversations. Sam and Jonathan model simple, real-life social skills that help children learn respectful communication.
TAKING TURNS 🙋♀️🙋♂️ Educational Cartoons for Kids | Lingokids
This fun and engaging cartoon teaches children the importance of taking turns with friends and siblings. Join the Lingokids characters as they explore sharing, patience, and play through songs, stories, and games.
