Conversations Help with Language Development

How:

CREATE INVITATIONS FOR CONVERSATION! Talking with your child is so important for language development. Here are some easy ways to build in conversation:

• Place a really enticing game/object out of reach

• Interrupt the routine/do something unexpected (Planned Accident)

• Offer parts of a toy (e.g., puzzle) bit by bit

• Offer choices between activities and items (e.g.,’ Should we make a puzzle or play a game?’ ‘Do you want purple play-doh or blue play-doh?’)

• Have your child create some artwork and ask them to tell you about their picture. Write below the picture what they said.

• Play! Get on the floor and play with your child.

WH-Questions:

How? Visuals such as pictures can help elicit a correct response. Giving the child options is a great way to simplify the activity (e.g., “What do you cut paper with, a banana or scissors?”). Additionally, telling the child the answer, and then asking them the question again may be helpful.

Hierarchy of easiest to hardest:

• What

• Who

• Where

• When

• Why

Answering WH-questions is a complex skill that lays the foundation for children to participate in conversations and demonstrate knowledge. WH-questions require children to understand what is being asked, process the question, come up with an answer, and say their answer.

• Home activity: While reading simple picture books, ask your child questions such as “Who is that?” or “What is she/he doing?”