What is an example of "private speech" in young children?

Private speech refers to the self-directed talk that children use to guide themselves through tasks and regulate their behavior. Speaking to themselves while completing activities is a clear manifestation of private speech, as it involves children verbalizing their thoughts and strategies to help them navigate challenges, solve problems, or perform tasks. This internal dialogue is a natural part of cognitive development and helps children process information and develop self-control.

In contrast, talking with peers, reading aloud from a book, or engaging in group discussions involve interactions with others and do not reflect the solitary, self-regulatory aspect of private speech. During these activities, children are typically communicating externally, which serves different social and educational functions than the self-talk characteristic of private speech.