You might expect a preschooler's private speech to decline in the following situation

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Private speech, or self-directed speech, is a tool for thinking and self-regulation that preschoolers often use. It tends to decline in situations where children feel less comfortable or less inclined to engage in self-dialogue. This includes being around peers who speak a foreign language, which might make them feel less understood or connected; being surrounded by unfamiliar peers, which could make them feel shy or less secure; and sitting alone at a table, where the lack of social interaction might reduce the need or desire to vocalize their thoughts. Each of these scenarios can lead to a decrease in private speech as the child might either feel inhibited or find it less necessary to guide their actions or thoughts aloud.

You Might Expect a Preschooler's Private Speech to Decline in the Following