Many mom's have questions about helping their child learn how to talk. These quick tips may help your child learn how to talk.
How Can I Help My Child Learn to Talk?
Sing
• Sing simple songs with your child. Children like to listen to and learn the new sounds, rhythms and words in songs.
• Add hand and facial movements. Children can learn to connect these movements with the meaning of the words and learn by imitating.
Make language a game
• Say, “1,2,3…GO!” When the child is taken down from the changing table, out of the crib or stroller. Let the child say “GO” with you.
• Play peek-a-boo with your child. Hide your face with your hands. Move your hands and say, “Peek-a-boo!” Your child may look surprised, smile and laugh. Children also like to hide their faces. Learning to take turns is an important part of talking together.
Talk with your child during daily activities
∙ Bath time
∙ Name body parts
∙ Meal time
∙ Name foods
∙ Name things on the table like plates, bowls, and spoons.
∙ Use simple directions like, “Give Mommy the cup.”
∙ Bed time
∙ Say, “night-night” to family members, friends, pets, and toys.
∙ Read a short book together
∙ Use simple expressions
∙ All gone
∙ Bye-bye
∙ Where’s mommy? (use a brother’s or sister’s name too)
∙ Call your child by a nickname or a baby name.
If you have child development questions about your baby contact DeAnn Davies, Healthy Steps Specialist with Phoenix Children's Hospital, at (602) 546-0235 or visit http://www.phoenixchildrens.com/about/community-outreach-education/healt...
This material was developed by Boston University for use of Healthy Steps for Young Children with Financial Support from The Commonwealth Fund and other funders.
Allison Bell
Media Relations Specialist
Phoenix Children's Hospital
1919 East Thomas Road
Phoenix, AZ 85016
abell@phoenixchildrens.com
Phone 602-546-0824
www.phoenixchildrens.com
