COMMUNICATION: HOW TO TALK WITH TODDLERS

May 19, 2021

Take the conversation to your child’s level. Conversations can sometimes be above the younger children’s level of understanding; therefore, it is important to bring the conversation in line with a level they would understand.
The way we talk to our kids has a significant impact on their learning and ability to listen to us. We are continually modelling to our children how to act and behave, and the way we talk to them fits right into this category. The way we speak to them and others is showing them how we want them to respond to us and others.
Make conversation a priority with your children. This is especially important when there is more than one child in the house. Using language and vocabulary that is age appropriate is really important to mould a rich language environment for your child. It will also build confidence, self-esteem and good relationships.
Tune in and listen to what the child says. It is important to be attentive and show your child that you are interested in what they are saying. This also model good behaviour and manners you would like to teach your child for future reference.
Take turns talking. Showcase a conversation and respond age appropriately to what is said. Don’t interrupt. Don’t scold your kids when they are telling you a story. They will lose interest in sharing their feelings with you in future if you shift away from their story. Rather use this opportunity to engage with your child and use the content as a teaching moment. Remember the exchange are not only about words but about feelings, about paying attention to that little person’s story.
Talk about what the child is doing, what the child is looking at, or what the child is interested in. Ask open-ended questions to develop curiosity. Adding words or questions to what the child says will model new language and enrich your child’s vocabulary.
Ask questions that relate to the child’s experiences or interests. This will help develop critical thinking skills and give the child a moment to think about different scenarios and how to approach or react to it.
Give the child enough time to respond. For children who do not have language yet or is shy in nature, this may be a nonverbal response, like a gesture or a look. Allow your child to find his/her voice.
Some children find speaking and listening harder than others. They might find it hard to understand what words and sentences mean. Some struggle to find the right words and sounds to use and put them in order. So, be considerate and patient. You can use your child's imagination to your advantage by making a game out of telling funny stories or jokes. Ask them to tell you a joke or teach you about their favourite toy, which will require them to put their thoughts into words. But even if your child experiences some language delays, this doesn’t always indicate a serious problem. If you worried because they are not speaking, see an expert.
During difficult times, it is always harder to remember to acknowledge your child, but if a child can hear anything during a temper tantrum, it reassures them to hear our recognition of their point-of-view. Most parents talk too much or use unclear language when they discipline a small child. Too many words and vague complaints only confuse and overwhelm them, so be prepared when speaking to your little one.
Reading to your child as much as possible every day is one of the best things you can do to encourage language development, imagination development and creativity.