point to objects I want and name objects that are important to me
copy single words you say
make a variety of sounds like mama, b-b-b
You can help my talking by
repeating the words I say so I know how it should be said
telling me the names of people and objects I see around me or in books
always answering me when I try to talk
talking with me about what you are doing
waiting for me to reply - leave pauses in your talking
using gestures to help me understand new words
Activities we can share together
looking at and reading books
playing ‘give and take’ games such as rolling the ball to me and waiting for me to push it back
‘peek-a-boo’ and ‘round and round the garden’
singing songs and rhymes with lots of actions in them
blowing bubbles together - wait for me to take a turn and ask for ‘more’
outdoor activities like –
chasing
playing ball
going to the park
Things to remember
children learn from adults. Have a special time every day to enjoy playing and talking together
houses are noisy places. Reduce the amount of noise by turning off the TV or radio. It is easier for children to listen without the extra noise
looking at each other will help your child understand how important talking is. Sit so that your child can see your face
too much dummy sucking can reduce the amount of talking your child does and may cause difficulties in speaking. Cut down the amount of time your child has a dummy
your child needs you to talk with them throughout the day. Everyday jobs and routines can be a time to talk with your child like meal times, getting dressed and undressed, bath time, going for a walk, going to the shops, on the bus or in the car
