How to Foster Early Language Development
Fostering language development in young children gives them a head start in communication and learning. A child with strong language skills can better express his thoughts and feelings, which reduces frustration. Kids are better able to interact with their peers. Language development gives kids a solid foundation when they begin reading. There are many ways to encourage young children to expand their language. Most activities don't require any special materials.
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Instructions
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Talk to your child from the time he is born. Children naturally pick up words and meaning by hearing adults talk to them. Tell him what you're doing, sing him a song or talk about your day.
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Talk to your child rather than around her. Even babies need parents to have a conversation with them for language skills and bonding. Children can often understand more than we realize, even if they can't acknowledge it.
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Encourage babbling and beginning word sounds from your baby. When your baby says "ba" at the sight of a ball, encourage him by saying the word "ball" so he can hear it correctly.
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Read books to your child. Even babies enjoy listening to books and seeing the pictures. Reading daily to your child helps her develop language skills and encourages an interest in reading.
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Purchase wordless picture books that allow kids to develop their own storyline. This helps them develop their language skills and storytelling skills.
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Encourage toddlers to ask questions. Parents often grow tired of answering a seemingly endless string of questions, but that is how children learn about their world and develop language.
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Play naming games with your child. Have him find a certain object, count cars or look for a particular color. "I Spy" is a simple game to help children find items based on your description. These games help your child practice using language and teach him new words.
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Look at pictures in magazines or photographs of activities. Ask your child to describe what she sees in the pictures.
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Take your child to new places such as the zoo, museums, music concerts and parks. This exposes him to new things and gives you the opportunity to discuss the new scenery.
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Sit down to dinner as a family. Have a conversation about the day, upcoming family events or tell jokes.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't be afraid to introduce your child to new concepts and words that you think are difficult to understand. Even if he doesn't fully understand it, the exposure gives him a point of reference for future encounters.
Model good communication skills by actively listening to your child during a conversation. Give her your full attention.
