by Rhianna Suttie-Gunson

Created on: April 11, 2009   Last Updated: June 28, 2009

Every word a child is exposed to increases their vocabulary. Every conversation and interaction that a toddler experiences can help to expand the range of words they will choose to use.

While the growth of a toddler's language skills occurs naturally through everyday life, with a little thought and awareness it is possible to accelerate and broaden this growth beyond normal expectations. On the basis that the more a child hears the more they will learn it only stands to reason that the easiest way to expand your toddler's vocabulary is to talk to them and let them hear your voice.

Toddlers are some what of a captive audience. They crave the attention that comes with conversation, making it easy for you to have regular conversations with them. For the most part, particularly when young, children are not even overly concerned if the strings of words flying out of your mouth make sense. Which makes talking to them one of the easiest things in the world.

Talk about what you are doing, where you are going, what you will do, who you will see, even what you will wear. Provide a running commentary on your surroundings, thoughts, and everything in between. Try and maintain simple concepts yet cover as many details as possible. Include shapes, sizes and colours as well as textures, smells and sounds.

When asking questions allow the toddler the chance to respond. If after a short pause there is no response answer the question and ask your toddler their opinion. "What colour is the letter box?... Is it a red letter box? " By asking the same questions on a regular basis your toddler will learn the answer and before long have their own repertoire of answers to your questions. Before long you may well be surprised at what they can come up with when given the opportunity.

At the end of the day talk to the toddler about what you have done and plans for tomorrow. Encourage them to talk about their day and what they saw. This will reinforce any new words and experiences. Naturally your youngster may need prompting and reminding but again it can be heartwarming to see what they recall. Such conversations are ideal when you need to keep a toddler occupied while you cook dinner or do the washing. Other great conversation times include waiting in lines and traveling.

As much as you talk, commentate and explain to your toddler you need to provide them with the opportunity to voice their own opinion, even if it sounds like nothing more than a babble. These first

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>