How to Teach Your Toddler Beginning Language Skills

Your child enters the exciting world of language the day he is born. Language surrounds him, from body language to in-depth conversations. As a toddler, he begins to put new words and phrases together to see how well he can communicate. Mommy and daddy are the child's first teachers, so he looks to you for proper language cues. Surround him with a language- and print-rich environment to help his language development flourish.

Things You'll Need

  • Expressions photos
  • Books
  • Nursery rhymes
  • Blocks

Instructions

  1. Model Language

    • 1

      Model short phrases and sentences for your toddler to emulate. Do not worry if she does not use language correctly the first few times.

    • 2

      Speak in slower, short sentences to give the toddler time to process the words. Correct the child's language by rephrasing it, recommends Education.com.

    • 3

      Express various emotions and your response to certain feelings. This will teach your toddler the importance of using language in context. Show her photos of different facial expressions, such as grumpy or excited, and label the words to describe each.

    Read Together Often

    • 4

      Read with your little one daily to introduce new vocabulary. Use books to teach the natural flow of language and to encourage creative thinking.

    • 5

      Introduce books with only a few objects and words on each page. Ask your toddler to point to various objects to assess whether he comprehends the names of pictures.

    • 6

      Read fun nursery rhymes with repetition and rhyme often. Let your toddler join the reading fun to boost her vocabulary and understanding of the story.

    Learn Through Play

    • 7

      Play with your toddler every day to encourage new language. Get on his level and make eye contact, suggests Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

    • 8

      Let your little one take the lead during creative play. Mimic what she does and ask questions about what you're playing.

    • 9

      Talk about what you're doing, such as "stacking the blocks" to introduce the vocabulary to your toddler and allow him to copy you.

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