---
title: "Patience and Delayed Gratification"
description: "Wait for things they want without becoming very distressed — practising patience and delayed gratification in everyday situations like waiting their turn, waiting for a treat, or waiting for help"
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/patience-and-delayed-gratification-mt_nNDX_jZ-cb
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/patience-and-delayed-gratification-mt_nNDX_jZ-cb.md
retrieved: 2026-10-19
---

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# Patience and Delayed Gratification

Wait for things they want without becoming very distressed — practising patience and delayed gratification in everyday situations like waiting their turn, waiting for a treat, or waiting for help

Subject: Personal & Social Development · Area: Self-Regulation & Resilience · Ages 5 to 7
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/patience-and-delayed-gratification-mt_nNDX_jZ-cb

## Ready when they can

- Wait for their turn in a game or activity without constant complaints
- Describe what they do to help themselves wait, such as thinking about something else
- Explain why sometimes we have to wait and that it is a skill they can practise

## Lesson: Waiting your turn

Sometimes you want something right now. A toy, a treat, or a turn. You may have to wait. Waiting is a skill, and you can practice it.

*(drawing: Ben goes first, then Amy, then you. Your turn is coming.)*

**Example.** Mia wants a turn on the swing. Ben is swinging first. Mia waits and thinks about her favorite song. Soon, it is her turn.

**Tip.** When you wait, think about something fun instead. Count quietly, hum a song, or picture your favorite game. You already know how to calm your body if waiting feels hard.

**Recap.** Waiting is a skill. Think of something else, and your turn will come.

## Practice

8 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [Simple Calming Strategies](https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/simple-calming-strategies-mt_Iwg2diBSyW)
- [Words for Big Feelings](https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/words-for-big-feelings-mt_SeNxOZTHCN)

## Opens up

- [Habits and Motivation](https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/habits-and-motivation-mt_0ewYhTSHtP)
- [Saving for Something Months Away](https://lightmysky.com/learn/life-skills/saving-for-something-months-away-mt_NFZG8bDa5o)