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Growth & Skill Development

Talking to toddler

Talking to toddler

As your child grows, you can gradually adapt the way you communicate with her. Try these tips:

  • Pay attention when your toddler talks. This is easy because just listening to your little one talk is fascinating.
  • Expand on what your toddler says.For example if she says, "See the dog," ask, "What sound does the dog make?" or "What color is the dog?" This expansion helps increase your toddler’s appreciation for the seemingly limitless possibilities of language.
  • Echo back what your toddler says. This is a good tip, no matter how old the child! It keeps everybody on the same page.
  • Ask questions. Because your little one is now talking, this is a wonderful opportunity to find out what’s going on in her mind.
  • Interpret what’s happening at a level just beyond where you assume your toddler’s operating. Little ones can operate at a higher level than we assume, so a little stretch will make for a healthy conversation. For example if she says, "See the dog," respond by explaining why the dog is on a leash or why you shouldn’t pet a dog that’s unfamiliar to you.

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