How to Teach Your Toddler to Talk

Some babies start talking as early as 6 months some start talking a lot later. Here are some steps in helping you help your baby to have a larger vocabulary at an earlier age.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Patience
• Time
• Love

1. Start by talking to your baby from birth, if possible, about everything. Describe what you are doing, have conversations with her, explain how things work, read books, the point is to expose her to as much language as possible. Remember parent's are the best teachers.

2. Leave the TV Off. You may think having your baby or toddler watch TV will help their vocabulary but in fact the opposite is true. Studies show that watching TV at an age earlier than two years old is linked to Attention Deficit Disorder. Allow your baby to play alone with toys or play with her yourself.

3. Name EVERYTHING. If you have a young baby, name every object for her. If you are going to feed her, give her food, a toy whatever it is, tell your baby what it is. If you have an older baby who points or requests objects with sounds, before giving it to them say the word, wait for a response, repeat the word then hand it to your child. For example, if your child is pointing to an apple, say "Apple. Do you want the apple. Can you say Apple?" Pause Hold the apple in front of the baby, say "apple" then give it to your baby and repeat with other things as well.

4. Never use baby talk when talking to your baby. Babies learn by example. If you want them to learn to talk you have to use real words with them at all times.

5. Read to your baby. Show your baby pictures and label them for her. Ask her what the pictures are.

6. If your baby attempts to repeat a word, give her LOTS of praise, over exaggerate if you need to, the point is to get her to WANT to do it again. In know time you should see a change in your child's vocabulary.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient with your baby. All babies learn at different speeds. Studies show that girls sometimes talk faster than boys.
• Give your baby lots of love and attention
• If you feel that your child is behind in his or her development in any way please speak to your child's pediatrician. Your child will be eligible to receive a free evaluation through the Early Intervention Program in your state.

[woodsusa]

on 1/5/2009 This is such good advice! Tv can be such a hindrance...great article!

[munecapr1]

on 11/18/2008 Great advice! I tried some of your tips and am seeing progress in my son! Thanks alot! Keep writing!