Setting up Communication Temptations for Your Little Talker

As parents, we play a crucial role in nurturing our child's language development. One powerful technique to encourage communication is through "communication temptations." In this blog post, we'll explore what communication temptations are and provide practical tips for incorporating them into your daily routines.

What are Communication Temptations?

Communication temptations are moments intentionally designed to encourage your child to communicate. By creating opportunities that pique their interest, you're setting the stage for them to express themselves, whether through words, gestures, or sounds.

1. Choose Engaging Activities:

Think of activities that your child loves and finds exciting.

Identify your child's favorite toys, games, or activities. These can be anything from building blocks to stuffed animals or even playing with bubbles. The key is to choose things that captivate their attention and make them eager to interact.

2. Pause and Wait:

Allow space for your child to initiate communication.

Once you've set up an engaging activity, take a step back and give your child a chance to respond. This encourages them to take the lead and express themselves in their own way.

3. Use Descriptive Language:

Narrate the activity to provide language models.

While engaging in the activity, describe what you're doing using simple and clear language. For example, "Look at the colorful blocks! Let's build a tall tower." This provides your child with rich language models to learn from.

4. Encourage Choices:

Offer options to promote decision-making.

Give your child choices related to the activity. For instance, "Do you want to use the red block or the blue one?" This empowers them to make decisions and express their preferences.

5. Celebrate Every Attempt:

Applaud your child's efforts, no matter how small.

Whether it's a smile, a gesture, or a vocalization, acknowledge and celebrate every attempt your child makes to communicate. This positive reinforcement builds their confidence and encourages further interaction.

By incorporating communication temptations into your daily routines, you're creating a nurturing environment that fosters language development. Remember, each interaction is an opportunity for growth and learning. So, embrace these moments and enjoy the journey of communication with your little one!

At Our Place, we're here to support you on this incredible journey. If you have any questions or would like further guidance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at morgan@ourplacespeechpathology.com

[Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for informational purposes and does not replace professional advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific concerns regarding your child's development.]