Why Teach This Early?

Phone skills are essential for safety and communication. A child who can call 911 could save a life. Phone etiquette teaches social skills that transfer to all communication.

Progressive Sub-Goals

Introduction

Answers phone and calls for parent

💡 Tip: Practice with a toy phone first. Teach: "Hello, this is [name]. May I help you?" Role-play different callers. Teach when to get a parent.

Developing

Makes calls to familiar numbers

💡 Tip: Program grandparents and close family into speed dial. Practice calling them. Teach phone etiquette: greeting, purpose, goodbye.

Mastery

Knows how to call 911 and what info to provide

💡 Tip: Practice the script: "My name is ___, I need help because ___, I am at ___." Explain when to call 911 (emergencies only). This could save a life.

Teaching Tips

1Practice with toy phones first
2Role-play different scenarios
3Teach phone etiquette
4911 knowledge is essential safety skill

Global Context

Emergency services worldwide recommend teaching children to call for help from age 4. This is a critical safety skill. Children who know how to get help in emergencies are safer.