Hands on your lap? or in your lap?

[curica41]

As teachers we always ask the kids to put their hands in/ on their laps. This phrase is kinda confusing to me as technically we put our hands on our laps as we physically put them on top of our lap in which by definition means the front area from the waist to the knees of a seated person. However, I have heard and read several times some sentences that say "hands in your lap". Could somebody enlighten me on this one?

Please send your inputs as well with the phrases 'wait your turn?" or "wait for your turn?". Which one is more appropriate to use.

Thanks and have a great summer.

[Soup]

• Put your hands on your lap < touch the top of your thighs>
• Put your hands in your lap <rest your hands there>
• Wait (for) your turn <for is often omitted>