Learning to Follow Directions...The Kindermusik Way!

 


Helping Children Learn to Follow Directions 

(With a Musical Twist!)

If you've ever asked your child to put on their shoes or clean up their toys only to find them doing the exact opposite five minutes later, you’re not alone. Following directions is a skill that takes time and guidance to develop. The good news? With consistency, patience, and a bit of creativity (hint: music!), your child can become a better listener and follower of directions.

Why Following Directions Matters

Following directions isn’t just about obedience; it’s about setting kids up for success in school, social situations, and life. When children learn to listen, process, and act on instructions, they gain confidence, independence, and a sense of responsibility.

Teaching Kids to Follow Directions

Here are some simple strategies to make following directions easier for your child:

1. Get Their Attention First

Before giving instructions, make sure your child is actually listening. Get down to their eye level, say their name, and use a calm tone.

Example:
“Emma, I need your eyes and ears.”

2. Keep It Short and Simple- Use "first, and then"

Young children process information best in small chunks. Use clear, direct language with only one or two steps at a time.

Instead of:
“Go brush your teeth, put your pajamas on, pick a book, and come back here.”
Try:
“First, brush your teeth, and then come tell me when you are done.”

3. Have Them Repeat It Back

Ask your child to repeat what you said. This helps reinforce understanding and gives them a chance to clarify if needed.

Example:
“You’re going to put your shoes on and then grab your backpack. Can you tell me what you’re doing?”

4. Use Positive Framing

Focus on what you want them to do, not what you don’t.

Instead of: “Don’t leave your toys out.”
Try: “Please put your toys in the bucket.”

5. Acknowledge Effort, Not Just Results

When kids make the effort to follow directions, even if it’s not perfect, acknowledge it. 

Example:
“You listened and you started cleaning up! Thank you for being a helper.”

The Power of Musical Reminders

Kids respond incredibly well to rhythm and repetition. Using music or jingles to cue behavior can make routines more fun and memorable.

  • Transition Songs: Sing a short song when it’s time to move from one activity to another.
    “Toys away, toys away, time to put the toys away!"

  • Direction Songs: Use melodies to deliver instructions. “First we put on socks and shoes, then we zip our coat up too!”

  • Musical Timers: Use a short upbeat song instead of a traditional timer to indicate how long they have to finish something (like brushing teeth or cleaning up).

  • Create Your Own: Personalized songs with your child’s name and routine can make directions feel special and engaging.

Music taps into memory, emotion, and routine. When directions are sung or associated with a familiar tune, kids are more likely to remember and enjoy them.


Teaching children to follow directions isn’t about demanding perfection—it’s about building habits. With consistency, clear communication, and a little creativity (especially through music!), you can transform even the most chaotic moments into smooth, cooperative routines.


Because sometimes, a song really is the secret to getting those shoes on.

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