3) Break It Down and Give Clear Instructions
One reason that preschoolers dawdle is that they're really not sure what's expected of them, or they're overwhelmed by the task in front of them. "We've got to get ready to go to school..." means one thing to moms, and a whole other process to preschoolers. Give each child eye contact, getting down on their level if necessary. Repeat instructions to each child if necessary so that they understand their responsibility and can't use the excuse, "I thought you were talking to my sister/brother!"
For everyday routines, consider making a chart or picture list of tasks that need to be repeated on a daily basis. For example, a morning routine might include:
- - Going Potty
- - Washing Hands
- - Putting on Clothes
- - Putting Away PJ's
- - Brushing Hair
- - Eating Breakfast
- - Brushing Teeth
- - Washing Face
- - Putting on Socks and Shoes
Even young children can participate indepdendently in this routine, if the process is broken down into simple steps. Show them how to complete each item on the list, offer help (but don't step in!), and reward each accomplishment with lavish praise.
4) Set Reasonable Expectations
Your own behavior sets the tone. If you're rushing around crazed, your tension will be passed on to your multiples, making them more likely to dawdle and delay. Give yourself ample time to complete routines and get things done. If you're always trying to overcome impossible deadlines, they can't master the independent tasks that are so important to their confidence and self-esteem.
Establish schedules and routines that encourage cooperation from your twins or multiples. Kids appreciate consistency; they like knowing what to expect from day to day. Finally, remain calm and remember that they are kids and have their own timetable. They are developing important skills during this time.
5) Don't Do It For Them
As tempting as it may be, don't step in and finish things for your kids because they're dawdling. Of course, it would be faster for you to pick up the toys so that you can get started on dinner. But it only serves as an incentive for dawdling; next time you ask them to pick up in the playroom, they can get out of the chore by simply waiting you out. Instead, set natural consequences. "Since you didn't put the toys away in time, we won't have time to stop at the park on the way home from our errands." They still have to complete the task, but they've lost a reward due to their dawdling.
While dawdling and delaying is a normal tactic for preschoolers who are learning their way in the world, most kids grow out of it as they enter the elementary school years. Have patience. This "two" shall pass.
