As a parent to a growing toddler, I have often wondered if there is anything I should be doing to encourage my little girl’s language development. I know there are a lot of parents out there like me and this article will provide them with some great information on how they can get their toddler to talk.
Every toddler is different when it comes to language development. Some children will start using words around 12 to 15 months of age. Girls are more likely to start using words this early. Other children, often times boys, won’t start using words until around 18 to 20 months of age. It is said that the average 18-month-old should speak at least five words. Even though toddlers may not say much, they understand a great deal, so regardless of how many words your child says keep talking. The most important thing is that he or she can communicate in some way (pointing, grunting, demonstrating, nodding, etc.) with others. Turning when their name is called or following simple instructions are good indications that your child comprehends what you are saying to them.
Even knowing that children develop differently, some of us want to make sure that our children are developing at the right level. Can you do anything to help with your toddler’s language skills? Yes, you can.
It is important to keep a running monologue with your toddler. The more language your child hears, the more he or she is picking up. Just because they aren’t saying any words in response to you doesn’t mean your words aren’t reaching them. Research suggests that the amount and kind of language children are exposed to can slow down or accelerate speech and language development. If a child isn’t stimulated by being talked to, they might develop language at a slower pace. As you are doing things, talk about what is going on. When cleaning, you could say something like, “Mommy’s picking up toys,” or “Now it is time to vacuum.” You could also talk about what your toddler is doing. “You are a fast runner,” is a great example. A trip to the grocery store can also be a great place to introduce more words. Show your child food items and say the words clearly. Colors and shapes are all around the grocery store as well.
Reading is also an excellent way to get your child talking. Have a set time or establish a routine that incorporates books into your child’s day. A bedtime story will not only help to relax your child, but you are also exposing your child to those vital language skills. Don’t be a passive reader either. Make this time an interactive one. When you read the sentence, “The bunny hopped,” point to the bunny and say, “bunny.” Point out colors, animals, characters, and scenery when appropriate. Discuss the books read and ask questions to encourage your child to speak as well.
Other ways that you can model speech to help with language development include counting items, using gestures, imitating animal sounds, identify body parts, singing songs and asking questions (yes/no and those that require choices).
Sometimes children don’t talk because they don’t feel they need to, to get what they want. This is why it is important that parents and caregivers encourage toddlers to use words. Why would a child use their words when grunting or pointing works just fine? The next time your child comes up to you with an empty cup in hand, ask them if they need something rather than simply filling the cup up or putting it away.
If you are worried about your child’s speech and language development, talk to a pediatrician or think about having him or her evaluated by a speech-language pathologist. The child might just be a “late talker” but what if there is some type of disorder or disability at play? Discuss your concerns early on so that any problem can be caught and dealt with at the best possible time.
