Ask and Receive: Teaching Requests
Duration
Throughout the day
Ages
1–8
Levels
L2, L3
Goal
Build the cause-and-effect of communication: I ask → I get.
What you'll need
- Items your child loves but can't reach
Step by step
- 1
Identify 3 things your child wants regularly (water, a toy, a snack).
- 2
Place each one in sight but out of reach — a clear bin on the counter works.
- 3
When your child shows interest, model the request (word, sign, or picture card).
- 4
The instant they attempt it (any approximation counts), give them the item with warm praise.
- 5
Repeat 10+ times a day. Capture every natural opportunity.
Variations & next steps
Pair with a speech-generating app or picture cards for nonspeaking kids. Same principle, different modality.
