English instructions at home: everyday commands with children

Describing daily tasks with short English commands helps children learn language together with action. The child hears the command, sees what to do, and remembers the word through the action.

In the morning

“Wake up!”, “Wash your face.”, “Brush your teeth.”, “Put on your shoes.”, “Get your bag.”, “Let's go!”

At mealtimes

“Wash your hands.”, “Sit down, please.”, “Eat your vegetables.”, “Pass me the bread, please.”, “Are you finished?”

Play and tidy-up

“Let's play!”, “Your turn.”, “My turn.”, “Pick up your toys.”, “Put it in the box.”, “Well done!”

How to use them

Choose just a few commands each week and use them every day in the same situation. Show the action as you say the command; after a while the child works out the meaning alone. Showing the action works better than translating into Turkish.

To keep going, see A 15-minute English routine for children at home and Rooms and things at home in English.

Frequently asked questions

Should I translate the instructions into Turkish? There is no need; showing the action while you say the instruction teaches the meaning best.

How many new instructions should I add each week? A few are enough. Add new ones once your child understands them easily.