Teach Your Toddler Colors
If you're beginning to notice that your toddler is choosing blue over red or purple over pink, you're seeing her artistic development in action. According to the child development experts at PBS Parents, by the time your tot is 2 years old she is starting to show a preference for one color over another. With a rapidly growing vocabulary that may include up to two new words per day, you can expand on your toddler's artistic side by introducing new color words.
Things You'll Need
- Crayons
- Markers
- Tempera paint
- Paintbrush
- Finger paints
- Paper
Instructions
Expand on what your toddler is already saying, inserting color words into his daily speech. Paraphrase or repeat your child's comments back to him, adding in specific colors that describe what he is saying. For example, when he says, "I see a tree," respond, "You see the green tree." Point out colors around the house or in your community. Notice the colors around you and your toddler. Physically point to the colored object -- such as a red couch or a yellow sign -- and say the color name. Ask your toddler to repeat the color word back to you. Give your toddler art items to explore such as crayons, markers, tempera and finger paints in a rainbow of colors. Encourage your child to pick her own colors using the materials to explore the artistic process. Say the color names to her as she draws or paints, making it a natural part of the artsy conversation. For example, say, "I like how you used both red and brown finger paints" or "You made three green lines!" Ask your toddler questions about his artwork that focus on color while he is drawing or painting, including "What color is that finger paint print?" or "Can you point to the purple line?" Vary how you talk about colors as your toddler develops a larger vocabulary. Ask her new questions, allow her to point out the colors first or use color words in different settings such as describing the tiger's stripes at the zoo or noticing the colors of letters on a box of cereal.
