A phone call is like saying hello, but the other person cannot see you. They can only hear you.
Key idea
Answer with “Hello?” and speak clearly. If the call is for a grown-up, say “Please wait,” and go get them.
Why it works
On the phone, words are all the caller has. Clear words and “please wait” tell them what is happening.
Worked example: Let's practice
The phone rings. Omar answers. The caller asks for his mom. What does Omar do?
- Omar says hello clearly.
- The call is for Mom, so he says, “Please wait. I'll get her.”
- He sets the phone down gently and walks to get her.
Answer: Omar says, “Please wait,” and walks to get Mom.
Common mistake
Shouting for a parent while still holding the phone to your mouth, or putting the phone down without a word. Say “Please wait,” then walk to get them.
Customs differ. Families have their own rules about who may answer the phone. Some children answer; some let a grown-up answer. Follow your family's rule. If you don't know what to say on a call, get a grown-up.
For the grown-up. Practice with a toy phone: ring, answer, “Please wait,” and fetch. Decide your family's rule for answering and for what to do when a call is not for them, and say it simply.