Building Speech
How do we get from cooing to babbling discussions about apples?
Here are some tips to help your child learn the key to communication: language.
Ψ Talk to your child
As straightforward as it sounds, talking to your child exposes them to language. From birth, speak to them about the world around them.
As they begin creating their own sounds, respond to what they (attempt to) say. For example, if your toddler points at a toy, respond as if they’re asking for the toy - “Do you want the toy block?” Baby is simply cooing? Coo back at them! This encourages them to continue trying.
Take it a step further by building onto their speech. Add words to what they said to get them ready for their next stage of speech development.
Child: Bus.
Parent: Yes, big bus!
Repeat what you say. Repeating the same words or sentences help children learn them!
Copy what they say. This is a way to show that you’re sharing their interests.
Show them the right way. When your child makes a mistake, say the word or sentence again correctly for your child.
Child: Look at the dod.
Parent: Yes, it’s a dog.
Not sure what to say? Try Narrating what you or they are doing.
Melissa’s pouring tea for daddy.
Mummy’s cutting a carrot.
Ψ Read together
Read aloud together and point to words as you say them. This will show them the link between spoken and written words.
Sometimes, you don’t even have to read the words – point at the pictures and discuss them!
Ψ Sing
Songs are a great resource to use in speech therapy and even in daily life! Free, readily accessible, and easily tailored to a child's interests, songs can be used with kids of all ages!
Sing simple, catchy songs that are easy to repeat. There’s no shame in using the classics over and over again. For example, Row, Row, Row Your Boat.
Use actions and props to engage your child! Here’s an example of a song that uses actions: Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes.
Songs can also help your children learn to rhyme. Encourage your child to fill in the last word of each line as you sing along to songs like Down by the Bay.
Down by the bay... Have you ever seen a llama wearing (pyjamas)! Down by the bay...
Signs of expressive language difficulties
Children express themselves differently because of their unique personalities and traits. However, language delays can be concerning.
You might be concerned if your child:
Is unable to correctly make use of certain words
Has a delay in reaching developmental milestones
Frequently uses fillers like “um”
If you have concerns like these, you may consider bringing your child for early intervention. Uncertain or unsure? A psychologist or speech therapist can help you to better understand your child’s areas of need.
