Worried your toddler isn’t talking enough? Excited to hear their first full sentences? Simple, everyday activities can make a big difference. Here are three easy ways to help your child talk more and grow their vocabulary.
1. Use the First 100 Words Checklist
The First 100 Words Checklist is a practical tool that lets you track your toddler’s vocabulary growth and celebrate every milestone.
How it works:
Track Progress: Regularly update the checklist as your child learns new words.
Interactive Learning: Use the words during play, mealtime, or storytime to reinforce them naturally.
Why it’s important:
Monitoring: Helps you see how your child is progressing and identify areas where they might need extra support.
Vocabulary Building: Introduces new words and provides a structured way to expand their language.
Reading books is one of the most effective ways to expose your toddler to new words while also building a beautiful bond with them.
How it works:
Choose Engaging Books: Look for books with colorful illustrations and simple, repetitive text.
Interactive Reading: Point to pictures, ask questions, and let your child join in by naming things they recognize.
Why it’s important:
Listening Skills: Helps toddlers focus and understand new vocabulary in context.
Bonding Time: Creates special moments of connection while encouraging language development.
3. Repeat, Rephrase, and Expand
This proven technique transforms everyday conversations into language-learning opportunities.
How it works:
Repeat: Mirror your child’s words to reinforce them.
Rephrase: Adjust or correct their words gently (e.g., if they say “dog,” you can say, “Yes, a big dog.”).
Expand: Add more information to their words to teach context (e.g., “The big dog is running fast!”).
Why it’s important:
Reinforces Learning: Builds confidence in their vocabulary and communication skills.
Teaches Context: Helps them understand how words fit into sentences and conversations.
Watching your toddler’s vocabulary grow is one of the most rewarding parenting moments. Start today with the First 100 Words Checklist and make every moment a language-learning opportunity.