A tool for and a method of communication that teaches children how to ask
a person a question when the person is busy. Children learn to use any
one of three tools that enable them to silently communicate a question
without interrupting the person. The tools consist of a specialized sheet
of paper, a plush toy sculpted into the shape of a question mark, and a
dry eraser board. By handing one of the three objects to the person that
is busy, the child is saying, without uttering a single word, "I have a
question. I know you are busy right now. My question is really important.
As soon as you are through doing what you are doing, I need to talk to
you." The person being questioned knows there is a question to answer as
soon as he/she is able to do so. The child knows that the question has
been acknowledged, a waiting period is involved, and that an answer will
be forthcoming.