6 Tips To Teach Your Toddler New Words
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Toddlers absorb a lot of information and acquiring language skills is one. If you’re looking to further your toddler’s vocabulary development, this is the right time. Make learning simple and something to look forward to by engaging in conversation and story-telling. You’ll soon see a marked improvement.
Video : 6 Fun Ways to Teach New Words to Your Toddler
It’s always exciting for parents when their toddlers begin to speak. Once they’ve uttered their first words (hopefully, ‘mama’ or ‘papa’), eager parents want their children to start chattering as soon as they can. But, each child is different. Some speak sooner and pick up new words faster, while others learn to talk later. Whether your toddler is an early or late bloomer, there are some things you can do to teach her new words.
Ways to Teach New Words to a 12-month-old Baby
1. Talk to Your Toddler
Hold conversations with her like you would if she could talk. The more you talk to her, the more alert she’ll be. Toddlers try and copy adults all the time and hearing you speak will motivate her to do the same. When your child tries to talk to you, be interested and listen to her. She’ll be encouraged to speak more.
2. Keep Favourite Things beyond Arm’s Reach
Place a few of your child’s favourite toys and books in sight, but not within reach. Encourage her to ask for them. This will add to your toddler’s vocabulary list and also help build her confidence.
3. Point, Name and Repeat
Have your child show you her favourite toys and name them for her. Repeat a few words to your child every day by establishing a routine and using the same words. It’s a simple way to come up with new words to teach your baby.
4. Read to Her
Read to your toddler every day, even if it’s just a page or two. Let her pick the book she wants. Point to words and pictures in the story and explain their meanings. Reading is the best way to learn new words and make the process fun and less stressful.
5. Ask Questions
Pose questions to your toddler that require more than a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. Ask questions about the colour of things and the sounds animals make. This not only teaches children to be more expressive, but also helps build their vocabulary.
6. Let Her Socialise
Arrange play dates for your child. They’ll help her socialise and interact with other children of the same age. They also encourage her to communicate and teach her how to behave with others.
Teaching toddlers new words is not difficult. Repeat new words, enunciate, and encourage your tot to say words out loud. No matter what you’re doing, constantly engage with your child. Speaking to her expands her vocabulary and helps her practice. Children’s minds are like sponges and they can absorb a lot. Make learning fun and they’ll pick up new words very quickly.
