4.5

Understanding more complex instructions

Why is this important?
This activity will help children follow three key words in a sentence,

thereby developing verbal understanding.

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What to do
• Three-word level instructions can be given during any and all daily activities.

In this way teaching and learning opportunities are available throughout the day.
• Gather together the following:
★ Doll, teddy (or alternative toy character). ★ Flannel, hair brush.
• Play together using the items to ‘wash’ and ‘brush’ doll/teddy’s body parts.
• Encourage the child to listen and then give an instruction using three key words:
★ ‘Wash teddy’s feet.’ ★ ‘Brush doll’s hair.’
★ ‘Brush doll’s hand.’
N.B. Try to remember not to look at, point to or give any visual clues

(you can do this if you need to ‘Step down’).
• If the child doesn’t quite get it right, acknowledge what he/she has managed,
repeat the instruction and then gently prompt/guide the child towards the correct
toys. Repeat the instruction as you guide or the child copies you.