When someone tells you something, it's kind to acknowledge them. In this story, Javi learns that he can say "okay" or give a thumbs up if someone tells him something, and he wants to let them know that he heard them.

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Tips for Caregivers:

• Make sure you model the same thing - if your child tells you something, be sure to pause and acknowledge them (meaningfully) before moving on.

Sometimes, someone is too close to your body and you just need some space. In this story, Javi learns how to say "I need space."

Grown-ups, try this out at home!

Tips for Caregivers:

• For non-verbal children or children with limited speech, try using a hand signal
• Sometimes physical space isn't enough - some children may benefit from finding a quiet room or less stimulating space. You know your child best, so follow their lead.

Sometimes, everything feels like too much and you don't know what you want. In this story, Oscar learns how to take a breath when he doesn't know what he wants.

Grown-ups: try practicing this at home with your own littles!

Got questions or comments? Send them to realstoriesrealchildren@gmail.com

IG: @realstoriesrealchildren

Tips for Caregivers:

• Sometimes children are overwhelmed, and even asking them what they want once they've calmed down can feel like too much. You can read a book near them or play quietly with a toy as a way to continue to help them regulate and calm down. They also may want you to make the choice of what to do until they know what they want, which is also okay!

Sometimes, especially when you have a new sibling, it can be hard to get adult attention! In this story, 2-year-old Javi learns what he can say to get grown-up attention safely.

Grown-ups: try practicing this at home with your own littles!

Got questions or comments? Send them to realstoriesrealchildren@gmail.com

IG: @realstoriesrealchildren

Tips for Caregivers:

• Some children may use non-verbal ways to get attention, like putting their hand on your shoulder or hip. Follow the lead of your child and their needs.
• The first few times a child asks for your attention, be sure to stop what you are doing and give them your attention right away. Over time, you can have them wait until you are available. This helps children build trust and confidence in using their words/attention-getting signals.