At school, your child may find him or herself walking into a conversation.  Your child, who is excited about a new video game, might interject and start discussing his new game.  This is seen as both rude and selfish even though your child had only the purest of intentions. 

     It is important to let your child know that when he or she walks in on the middle of a conversation, it is always a good idea to listen for a few minutes before entering the conversation.  Your child must learn that the group is already involved in a conversation and your child must wait for a break in the conversation or at least until the topic has been changed or finished.   Let your child know that it is okay to, for example, discuss his new game, but not if it means interrupting the group’s discussion.

     You can also suggest to your child that when he or she approaches the group, your child first says hello and says something like, “Excuse me, when you’re finished talking there’s something I would like to tell you.”  This is teaching your child how to be respectful and show manners.  Furthermore, this gives your child the ability to practice patience and avoid impulsivity.

     You can do some role playing at home to reinforce this social skill.  Have several family members, or friends who are with you, pretend to be involved in a conversation.   Then, have your child make attempts to properly interject.  Give your child feedback until he or she properly interjects.