Following Directions

Following directions means listening carefully to instructions and then doing what they say. When a grown-up says, 'Please put your shoes by the door,' following directions is doing exactly that. It's a skill that helps you learn new things, stay safe, and show that you are a good helper.

Being a great direction follower is like having a superpower. First, stop what you are doing, and use your eyes and ears to pay attention. Next, listen to all the words and make a picture in your mind of what to do. If you feel confused, it's smart to ask, 'Can you please explain that again?' Finally, do the steps one by one, just the way you heard them.

You follow directions all the time. When you build a LEGO set using the instruction book, you follow the steps in order to make the spaceship look right. If you don't, you might end up with a wobbly pile of bricks. Following directions for a craft project at school helps you create something you can be proud of, instead of a sticky mess.

Following directions is important because it keeps you safe, like when a crossing guard tells you it's safe to cross the street. It also helps you be a good teammate when playing a sport or a game with friends. When you can follow directions, grown-ups know they can count on you for important tasks.