What are the core elements of Tell-Show-Do and how would you adapt it for a highly anxious child?

• A. Tell (explain), Show (demonstrate with models), Do (perform); slower pace, modeling, desensitization, breaks, positive reinforcement, age-appropriate language.
• B. Show, Tell, Do in that order; no adaptation.
• C. Tell only; refuse to demonstrate.
• D. Do first; explain later.

Answer: (A)

Tell-Show-Do means first explaining what will happen in simple language, then demonstrating it with models or demonstrations, and finally performing the procedure with the child present and prepared. The best answer includes this sequence and adds practical adaptations for a highly anxious child: slow the pace, use modeling and graduated exposure, break the procedure into small steps, allow short breaks, and reinforce progress with praise and age-appropriate language. These elements build predictability and trust, reduce fear, and give the child a sense of control, which helps cooperation during treatment. The other options misorder the steps, omit demonstration, or skip the explain-and-demonstrate component, making them unsuitable for managing anxiety.