When 2-year-old Joseph wanted to play hide-and-seek, he said, "Come with me, Ephan." His cousin, Ethan, who was three months younger, giggled and used single-words to verbalize concepts, such as Jos and hide.
A few months makes a big difference in language skills. Parents should not compare their children with others, especially those who are a few months ahead or behind their child. Instead, they can look for continued progress.
Parents can promote language growth when they speak to a child, allow him to verbalize thoughts, avoid using baby talk, limit watching TV and provide a variety of play opportunities.
Language development includes learning interactive conversation, such as what Joseph and Ethan had.
Speech pathologist Patsy Tate from Our Children's House at Baylor University recommends that parents and caregivers create opportunities for conversation.
- When children are thirsty, pour only a little water or juice so they will ask for more.
- Play tea party. Set out little cups and water in a small pitcher. Talk about what you are doing, such as, "Let's sit" and "Daddy is pouring the water."
- Use verbs. Dance or jump with them and say, "Let's dance," or "You jump high." Spend time at playgrounds using verbs like swing, push, slide, climb and run.
- Let children interact with books by asking them to turn the page, point out and name an object or open little doors to reveal surprises.
- Use patterns, such as books with predictable repetition or songs that repeat phrases. Pause so your child will fill in the next word.
- Language is more than words. It is also developing conversational skills, so engage your children in conversation. Ask what they are doing, eating or playing.
If your child shows little interest in talking, listening or interacting socially, visit a specialist who can conduct a speech evaluation.
Language Development (Averages)
by Patsy Tate
| 1 to 2 months |
Babies coo using vowel sounds |
| 4 to 6 months |
Babble using consonant and vowel sounds |
| 9 months |
Use jargon, adding consonant sounds and mimicking conversation |
| 12 months |
Say their first word |
| 1 to 2 years |
Accumulate words and start pairing words, such as more juice |
| 3 years |
Speak simple sentences |
This article first appeared in the Early Stages edition of the February/March 2008 issue of the Focus on Your Child newsletters. Copyright © 2008 by Focus on the Family.