There are many ways to engage your toddler’s interest in language activities and they will all help towards developing appropriate speech and language skills. If your child is particularly at risk for developing a speech delay it would be a great idea to include some language activities in their daily routine as early as possible. Providing them with a love of learning early on will build a solid foundation for their development and provide them with entertainment at the same time.
One of the best toddler language activities you can engage in is reading. Many local libraries have a special children’s section where you can sit and read together. Borrowing books not only reduces the cost but enables you to enjoy a wider range than what you have on hand at home. Libraries are a great place to visit with your toddler and they often hold playgroups and early literacy programs designed especially for toddlers. It can be a great social activity for both you and your toddler.
Another early language activity involves the use of flash cards. These cards use pictures and words to help the toddler to make an association between an object they recognize and what the spelled word looks like. Although your toddler may be years away from reading, these cards can be great because the toddler is attracted to the colors. While you are playing with these cards, you are also speaking with your child. Every good language activity should involve interaction with the parent because the toddler is showered with speech during the process.
Using sign language can be another great language activity for toddlers. It may seem contradictory to use sign language to enhance speech development; however sign language for toddlers involves the extensive use of speech. This is a great activity for toddlers because they are attracted to movement. Toddlers can copy your sign language gestures and they get inundated with speech from the parent during the process.
Other language activities may include singing. Toddlers have a great sense of rhythm and love to join in with songs. It can be a great way to help them learn the alphabet as well.
Parent interaction is essential for early language development, so finding some great fun language activities to do with your toddler will provide them with a wonderful head start.
Leave a comment