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Toddlers may be very tiny, but they are also very complex. Their minds are developing at a speedy rate, and they are constantly observing the world around them for something interesting. So if you want your toddler to develop language skills, make it interesting for them.
First of all, don't allow your toddler to get by on gestures or grunts alone. This does not facilitate language development, because once your child discovers he or she can get what they want without speaking, why would they bother? It may be difficult at first, but insist that your child use language as the primary means of communication.
Next, read to your child. This is paramount, not only in your child's journey to becoming a skilled orator, but in helping your child develop a love of reading. The sheer variety of words your child will encounter when you read to them on a regular basis will increase their vocabulary immensely. And the more words your child hears, the more words they will attempt to say.
It's also good to point out objects and people to your child, while naming them. This helps your child to understand that everything has a word that identifies and describes what or who it is. My son is very attached to his father, so when he hears his key in the lock in the afternoon, he immediately faces the door and says "DaDa." This is because I was constantly telling him from infancy, "Daddy's coming."
Work closely with your child on language development. Have lots of patience on hand, because pushing will only lead to resistance. If your child is very quiet, your parental instincts will tell you whether there is something wrong, or if your child is just naturally reflective.
Good Luck!

Learn more about this author, Eboni Manning.
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