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What Is Chaining? And How Can It Help Your Child Grow?

As a parent, you’ve probably seen how quickly your child latches onto something they love—whether it’s dinosaurs, trucks, counting, or a particular song. One minute, it’s “1-2-3,” and the next it’s “1 green truck, 2 green trucks, 3 red trucks…” without you even realizing how you got there.

That little leap your child made? That’s chaining in action.



Use the items, or concepts, your child loves and build from there!
Use the items, or concepts, your child loves and build from there!


💡What Is Chaining? And How Can It Help Your Child Grow?

Chaining is a learning strategy that builds on what your child already knows or enjoys, and adds small, connected steps to help them learn more. Think of it like a domino effect—each new piece of information links to something familiar, which keeps kids feeling confident and curious instead of overwhelmed.

It’s a powerful tool used by therapists, teachers, and developmental experts—but here’s the best part: you can use it at home every day.


🎲 Real-Life Example: Chaining With Counting

Let’s say your child loves to count. They walk around the house saying, “One, two, three!” over and over. That’s your starting point.

Here’s how you can chain that interest into deeper learning:

  1. Count Specific Items→ “Let’s count the cars on the shelf: 1, 2, 3, 4!”Now counting becomes meaningful—it’s connected to real objects your child cares about.

  2. Count and Categorize→ “Let’s count the red cars. How many red ones? And how many blue ones?” Count them together, one red car, two red cars, etc. Now you’ve added a layer of color recognition and grouping.

  3. Count in Action→ “Let’s see how many cars zoom down the ramp!” Count them together as you move through the movements. Movement adds excitement and helps build attention and turn-taking.

  4. Add Language and Questions→ “What happens if we add one more car? Now how many do we have?” Then count the number together. Now you’re working on early math, problem-solving, and communication—all without needing flashcards or a formal lesson.


🔁 Chaining Builds Confidence

Because chaining starts with what your child already knows and loves, it feels familiar and fun. Each new step is just a small stretch from where they are now, which helps prevent frustration and builds confidence and motivation.

This strategy works across all areas of development—whether it’s motor skills, communication, feeding, or play.


✨ Try Chaining With These Everyday Interests:

  • Loving dinosaurs?→ Name types → Pretend play → Sort by size → Count legs → Draw and label them

  • Into jumping?→ Count jumps → Jump over obstacles → Take turns jumping → Make up jump challenges

  • Obsessed with snacks?→ Sort by shape or color → Count how many crackers → Add a dipping sauce → Ask which is their favorite and why


🧠 Why It Matters

Chaining supports your child’s development by:

  • Encouraging learning through play

  • Building on existing interests

  • Supporting attention span and curiosity

  • Helping you feel confident as a guide in their learning journey


🛠️ One Step at a Time

You don’t need to overhaul your routines or buy fancy toys. Just start with what your child already loves, and think:“What’s one small way I can build on this?”That’s the heart of chaining—and it works like magic.


Have you enjoyed reading our post: What Is Chaining? And How Can It Help Your Child Grow? Let us know in the comments below!


Feeling Overwhelmed? You’re Not Alone

We believe parents should feel empowered, not overwhelmed. If you’ve got questions or want to learn more:

  • Leave a comment—we’d love to hear from you!

  • Join our Facebook Subscribers Group for just $0.99/month to access expert Q&As and exclusive content

  • Follow us on Instagram for helpful tips and real-life examples

  • Check out our YouTube channel for bite-sized videos packed with practical strategies and longer tutorials where we provide you important information


And remember, early support isn’t just intervention—it’s prevention, empowerment, and connection. And it’s never too early to be curious, ask questions, and seek guidance. We’re here for you, every step of the way. 🍼👣✨


With heart,

The NewDay Child Coaching Team

Rachel Lynn: Communication and Swallowing/Feeding Guide

Amber Michelle: Physical Development Guide

Amanda Rae: Fine Motor, Sensorimotor, Sensory/Feeding Guide


"Interweaving Disciplines and Knowledge for the Benefit of All™"


 “Learn from us and with us™️”

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