How to Increase a Child's Vocabulary

All children learn to speak at some point, but some kids pick up language quicker than others. There are things you can do to help increase a child's vocabulary without spending a lot of time using flash cards.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Speak to your child using your own words. Refrain from using simple language or talking to him like a baby. It's okay that he doesn't understand what every word means. Encourage him to let you know when he doesn't understand, and explain the new word to him.
2. Read stories to the child, and encourage him to read. Even children's books can help to increase child's vocabulary. Read stories that are slightly above your child's level, exposing him to new words. Many children are also capable of reading at a higher level than you may assume. Encourage them to give reading at a little more difficult level a try.
3. Provide a child who is old enough with a dictionary. Show him how to use it and encourage him to use it when he isn't sure what a new word means.
4. Ask the children to pay attention while watching television or listening to others talk. Have them write down 2 or 3 words that they didn't understand.
5. Ask your child for ideas to what a word might mean based on its context. Talk them through it to help figure it out.
6. Make new activities learning experiences. When you take a trip to the zoo, grocery store or grandma's house, make sure the activities are filled with lots of questions and answers, especially about things they haven't seen before. This provides ample opportunities to learn new words.