“How do I do this?”
“What’s the next step?”
“Can you explain it to me?”
We answer questions like these all week long. At work, we explain how to use the printer. At home, we explain how the washing machine works. We walk kids through math problems, chores, routines and even emotions.
Clear explanations are a huge part of everyday communication. And the good news? Explanatory speaking is a skill children can begin developing at a very young age.
This guide will help you understand when to start, how to begin, and what you can expect as your child grows.
When Should Kids Start Learning to Explain?
- They’re asking “why” and “how” questions
- They can use short sentences rather than one-word answers
- Their speech is clear enough to be understood most of the time
- They are usually around age four, though some children may start earlier
How to Introduce Explanatory Speaking
1. Start by modelling explanations
Even with infants and toddlers, narrate what you’re doing:
“Now it’s time to get ready for bed. First, I’ll change your diaper. Next, we’ll choose pyjamas. One leg in, then the other, good job!”
You’re calming them with your voice, building connection and demonstrating what a step-by-step explanation sounds like.
2. Talk through daily routines
How to Teach Kids to Give Their Own Explanations
Start small
- Ask them to explain simple tasks
- Prompt them when needed
- Use humour to keep things light
Let them see the results
Good starter questions
- “How do you eat a grilled cheese sandwich?”
- “How do you put on your shoes?”
- How do you make a Lego tower?”
- “How do you get into your car seat?”
What to Expect From Older Children (Ages 9+)
- Include most key details
- Give steps in the correct order
- Use more precise vocabulary (“buckle,” “discard pile,” “deal,” rather than “thingy”)
- Add a simple introduction (“I’m going to explain how to play Uno.”)
How to Help Older Kids Improve Their Explanations
Talk about the task first
- What the listener needs to know
- Needed equipment
- Number of players (for games)
- How the activity begins
- How it ends
Teach them to think like a listener
- “What does someone need to know before starting?”
- “Which steps come first?”
- “What are the tricky parts?”
- “Do I need to define any words?”
For example:
“The discard pile is the pile of cards that can’t be played anymore.”
Comparing the new activity to something the listener already knows can also be very helpful.
Encouragement Matters
A Real Example
My eldest grandson began mastering this skill at nine. He could explain how to build a domino run, create a Hot Wheels ramp, and play Uno, listing equipment, goals and helpful warnings. He even began explaining Super Mario Wii.
His clarity improved quickly, and soon Grandma could join in… maybe!
Want More Ways to Build Strong Speaking Skills?
Check out related blogs such as:
Helping Your Child Start a Conversation (Even When They Don’t Know What to Say)
Does your child freeze up in conversations or say “I don’t know what to say”? Try these easy role-play ideas and simple scripts to help kids feel more confident starting and continuing conversations.
Voices of the Future: Cultivating Effective Communication in Children
Discover engaging lessons and activities to boost your child’s public speaking and communication abilities, tailored for ages 7-12.
You can also join the waitlist for Stand and Deliver, a public speaking course for students ages 7 to 12.
