Communication Tips for Toddlers

PLAY with your child and follow their lead. There is not a “correct” way to play. Show your interest by engaging in the play routine your child initiates. Your child wants to put all the farm animals in the Barbie Doll house? Great! Roll with it, laugh with them, follow their lead.

TALK about what you’re playing/doing using one-word utterances or short phrases. (i.e. “This is so fun!” “Wow!” “Blue block!”). *** If your child is a gestalt language processor (GLP) or suspected GLP check out our blog here about GLP communication. ***

MODEL language during your everyday activities. Don’t worry about finding extra time for encouraging language. Just model during natural situations. This saves you time and creates a NATURAL context for eliciting language.

MOVEMENT helps children learn. There is a lot of research that suggests children need movement and play to learn. Don’t worry about making sure your child looks you in the eye and sits perfectly still. Just get them excited to play and/or move (hopscotch, trampoline, hula hoop, etc.) while you model language for them.

PAUSE EXPECTEDLY after modeling a new word. Avoid saying “say”. Instead model the word or phrase exactly as you would expect your child to say it. Say “block!” and then pause using an expectant facial expression and give your child time to imitate the new word. If they say it that’s great! Provide natural reinforcement by saying something like “Block, it’s a blue block!” If they don’t say it just model it one more time and continue playing and modeling! Don’t try to “force” words by repeatedly telling the child “Say ____.”

Try out some of these tips with your toddler to help improve their expressive language skills!

Abby Hedgepath M.S., CCC-SLP