Say I Like It

1. 1

   If your child often copies another person’s choice or cannot decide, create low-pressure chances to express a preference.

2. 2

   Do not choose before they speak or label them as shy. Begin with two clear options: “Would you like the round stickers or the star stickers?”

3. 3

   After the choice, ask why. If the answer is hard, make the question concrete: “Do you like the color or the shape?”

4. 4

   Notice preferences in art and play too. Ask about a selected color, pattern, action, or method.

5. 5

   Describe the decision—“You chose this shape”—instead of offering only general praise.

6. 6

   Being heard helps your child experience that their own likes and ideas matter.

What to notice

• States a preference, such as “I like the star sticker.” Sense of Identity and Belonging
• Shares more of their own ideas in response to specific questions Communicating and Speaking

Tips

• It is natural for your child’s interests to change with time and experience. Each new preference is part of discovering new ideas and getting to know themselves.

Developmental benefits

• Social/Emotional: Responding to your child’s choices across different activities helps them recognize and express their own interests and individual preferences.
• Language: Listening closely and asking for details gives your child practice saying what they like, why they like it, and what they want to do.