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Helping a child who struggles to join conversations

School-age kids

5 min read

Helping a child who struggles to join conversations

Joining a conversation takes many small skills at once. Games make them easier to practice.

Reviewed by

Maya Chen, M.S., CCC-SLP

Updated

October 1, 2026

your

your

your

turn

turn

turn

Turn-taking games

Board games, catch and building together all practice waiting, watching and taking a turn.

Practice at home

  • Take turns telling a story, one sentence each.

  • Play “guess what I am thinking” with questions.

  • Talk about a show you watched together.

Respect how your child connects

Some children prefer one friend, or shared interests over small talk. That is fine. The goal is connection, not a script.

This article is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you are worried, ask a professional.

Sources

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), asha.org

Wondering about your child?

Tell a licensed therapist what you are noticing on a free 15-minute call.

Clinic

120 Maple Street, Portland, OR 97214. Step-free entrance.

Hours

Monday to Thursday, 8 am to 6 pm. Friday, 8 am to 2 pm.

Online

Anywhere in Oregon.

Wondering about your child?

Tell a licensed therapist what you are noticing on a free 15-minute call.

Clinic

120 Maple Street, Portland, OR 97214. Step-free entrance.

Hours

Monday to Thursday, 8 am to 6 pm. Friday, 8 am to 2 pm.

Online

Anywhere in Oregon.