How to Teach Words to a 14-Month Old

Books

• Books are an excellent way to help teach your wee tyke some new words. As you read, she will be exposed to unfamiliar words, pick up correct sentence structure and learn names for items. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that 14-month-olds can generally pay attention to a short book. They recommend involving your child in the book selection process and engaging her in the story by asking questions and mimicking some of the characters̵7; actions and expressions. As you read to your child, identify pictures in the story by tracing them with your finger while clearly repeating the name of the pictured item a few times.

Speed and Tone

• Your speed, tone and approach to this venture are imperative. The AAP recommends speaking slowly and clearly to your toddler. Use simple words she will understand and short sentences she can follow. Now that she understands more of what you are saying, use the correct label for items instead of using baby talk. Instead of ̶0;babba,̶1; say ̶0;bottle.̶1; At this stage she may mess up some of the harder to say letters or long words, but practice makes perfect. Be patient -- encourage her to attempt to say the words instead of just pointing, give her time to try the word and then praise her efforts with kind words, smiles and clapping.

Name Items

• Daily life with your kiddo provides plenty of opportunities to teach her about the world around him. Grocery shopping excursions, car trips while running errands and even household chores will work. Point to the item you want to address and say the correct name. Repeat the word a few times for clarity, pausing to let her articulate the word and to see if she will repeat it. For instance, as you grab a gallon of milk at the store, you can say, ̶0;We need milk,̶1; and then point to the milk and repeat ̶0;Milk.̶1;

Be a Role Model

• You are the number one role model during the early years and she will repeat what she hears, so take advantage of this scenario. If you set a good example on using correct grammar and appropriate words, your little one will follow suit. Engage her in simple conversations and demonstrate how to respond appropriately. This is also a good time to introduce manners, like ̶0;Please̶1; and ̶0;Thank you,̶1; as well as phrases like ̶0;Good morning,̶1; ̶0;I love you̶1; and ̶0;Have a good day.̶1;