Language Development at Home

Don't let the summer break slow down your child's language development. Parents can be the best teachers and help their child reach the next milestone!

Finding creative, no-pressure ways to engage your child can help them expand their vocabulary while having tons of fun with mom and dad!

• Narrate your day while doing everyday activities (“We’re pouring the milk!”)

• Read together daily — even 10 minutes makes a difference 

• Give your child time to respond instead of answering for them

• Expand on what your child says (“Dog!” → “Yes, a big brown dog!”)

• Follow your child’s interests during play and conversation

• Ask open-ended questions instead of yes/no questions

• Repeat new words often throughout the day

• Get face-to-face when talking to help with attention and connection

• Play simple turn-taking games to build conversation skills

• Pause during favorite songs/books to encourage participation

• Model correct speech naturally instead of constantly correcting mistakes