Concept of "wait a second" - Autism Spectrum Message Board

ANGDAD · 02-18-2008, 01:53 PM

Probably another funny question but should a two year old understand the concept of "just a second" or "after I do this?"

If our son wants pancakes for example, he will use his word for pancakes and say it over and over and over. If my wife says "just a second" or "after I pick this up", he typically freaks out like we're not going to make them.

Is he supposed to understand the concept of "wait a minute" at this age??

Thanks

John

rebecca197334 · 02-18-2008, 03:24 PM

My four year old son does not have a concept of "wait a minute". Everything for him is impulsive. He does not share or take turns. Not without a tantrum. He has not been labeled with autism, but he may be on the spectrum. He has several developmental delays. He is mentally about 30 mos in most aspects of his life.

Picali · 02-18-2008, 06:19 PM

Hi John,

I'm trying to think back to the two year stage - seems like so long ago! But I don't think so many two year olds would understand 'wait a minute'. You might try using something more concrete to show him the time span (like an egg timer or something, you know the sand filled ones that you tip over?). Or if you use picture sequencing with him show him the picture of what you are doing first (before you make the pancakes), or will he respond to distraction? Something like, yes, pancakes, lets read a story book first or making funny faces or something (works with some children, not with others!). Or can he help make the pancakes - maybe if you gave him a small bowl of flour to play with while you make them, would that distract him at all?

I think the thing with all children, asd or not, is that, frustratingly, there's not usually one thing that they all respond to - we've tried umpteen different techniques over the years, some work some don't. My little boy responds well to distraction and being 'involved', but for other kids that wouldn't work so well.

datgrlstef · 02-19-2008, 08:10 AM

My kids are 4 and 5. Neither of them really grasp the concept. My nephew is almost 10, and well, he has problems with it, too. It's a kid thing, I'm sure.

rebecca197334 · 02-19-2008, 04:04 PM

I have two sons, 3 and 4. Their worst time of the day is when i'm cooking dinner. They just can't cope knowing i'm in the kitchen. They want food, just like if they were at the grocery store. It's a maturity thing, i think. I am alone while i'm cooking so trying to keep them occupied is torture. I recommend the crock pot, or something very short to cook.