Following directions is a key skill that involves understanding and acting on instructions from others. It impacts many aspects of life, such as learning effectively in school, staying safe, and collaborating successfully with others. While many factors can affect the development of this skill, anyone can benefit from practicing it regularly.
The All About Following Directions handout helps clients learn essential skills like active listening, asking clarifying questions, and completing tasks accurately. It lists the benefits of mastering this skill, such as better learning and teamwork, and includes eight tips for improvement. The handout also includes activities for them to get better at following instructions.
Using this handout helps kids and teens focus better, handle tasks, and keep commitments, which helps them succeed at school, home, and in their friendships. Regular practice strengthens these skills further.
A fun way for kids to practice following directions is through interactive activities like completing scavenger hunts or following simple recipes. These are tasks that make learning enjoyable.
This handout pairs nicely with our 4-page Following Directions worksheets.
*This item is an instant digital download. A link to download your files will be emailed to you once payment is confirmed.
Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of social skills worksheets and handouts.
References:
- Dunham, S., Lee, E., & Persky, A. M. (2020). The psychology of following instructions and its implications. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 84(8), ajpe7779. https://doi.org/10.5688/ajpe7779
- Gill, C., Moorer-Cook, L., Armstrong, E. S., & Gill, K. (2012). The ability to follow verbal directions: Identifying skill levels and measuring progress. Canadian Journal of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, 36(3), Fall.
- Waterman, A. H., Atkinson, A. L., Aslam, S. S., Holmes, J., Jaroslawska, A., & Allen, R. J. (2017). Do actions speak louder than words? Examining children’s ability to follow instructions. Memory & Cognition, 45(6), 877-890. https://doi.org/10.3758/s13421-017-0702-7
