Create turn-taking opportunities
Use games or activities that encourage turn-taking, such as rolling a ball back and forth or playing simple board games. This teaches social communication skills like waiting for a turn in conversation.
Copy your child to help them start understanding social interaction
The start of social interaction is copying each other. Watch what your child does and copy them, it may be their actions or sounds and see if they notice you copying. This is called mirroring and it helps develop social interactions
Establish predictable routines
Routines help children feel safe and secure. Having predictable meal, nap, and playtimes reduces anxiety and it helps children understand what’s expected of them.
Model social behaviour
Children often mirror the behaviour they see. If you model sharing, turn taking, waiting etc children will copy you. Draw attention to what you are doing i.e. say "I’m waiting for daddy to have his turn"
Use visual aids for understanding social rules
You can use stop signs or closed signs if a child is not allowed in an area of the house. For example when someone is cooking in the kitchen you could have a wait card or my turn card
Encourage simple social interaction
Gradually introduce your child to social situations, starting with short playtimes with one other child. Gentle introductions to small group activities or playdates can help them build confidence in social settings.
Social groups
Attend stay and play groups or other social activities. It can feel difficult if your child has SEND, but they need to experience social activities to learn avoiding such groups can limit their opportunities to practice the skills they need.