Help your non-verbal toddler communicate and express themselves #parenting #speech #children

Introduction

As a parent, you may wonder if your toddler can understand what you're saying even if they can't talk yet. Rest assured, your child is listening and learning. Children first develop receptive language before expressive language.

Receptive language refers to the understanding of expressions and words of others, while expressive language is the child's ability to express themselves. In order for your child to communicate and give out some output, you'll first need to give them some input.

Creating a communication-rich environment can significantly aid in this process. Here are some effective strategies you can use:

1. Constantly Talk to Them: Engage in face-to-face conversations with your child. Narrate your actions and describe things around you. For example, say, "I am going to help you change your diaper. Let's start by removing your blue pants."

2. Read to Them: Reading to your child introduces them to new words and concepts. Make it a daily habit.

3. Point Out Signs, Words, and Numbers: When you're out and about, point out street signs, store names, and numbers. This builds their vocabulary and understanding.

4. Narrate Your Activities: Whether you're cooking or tidying up, talk to your child about what you're doing. For example, "Your diaper is so full. Let's change it."

By immersing your child in rich and varied language experiences, you help lay the groundwork for effective communication skills in the future.

Keywords

• Receptive language
• Expressive language
• Communication-rich environment
• Face-to-face conversations
• Reading
• Vocabulary building
• Narrate activities

FAQ

Q: Can my toddler understand me if they can’t talk yet? A: Yes, they can. Children first develop receptive language, which is the ability to understand expressions and words, before they develop expressive language, the ability to express themselves.

Q: How can I help my toddler learn language even if they can't speak? A: Create a communication-rich environment by talking to them face-to-face, reading to them, pointing out signs, words, and numbers, and narrating your activities.

Q: What is receptive language? A: Receptive language is the understanding of expressions and words from others, which precedes expressive language.

Q: What is expressive language? A: Expressive language refers to a child's ability to express themselves using words and expressions.

Q: Why is it important to narrate activities to my toddler? A: Narrating activities helps your child understand the context and meaning of words, enhancing their receptive language skills and preparing them for expressive language.

Q: How do face-to-face conversations help my toddler? A: Face-to-face conversations allow your child to see your facial expressions and gestures, making it easier for them to understand and learn language.