If your child struggles with expressing themselves through language, they aren't alone. Improving expressive language takes time. Here are some things you can do as a parent to help your child practice these skills.
1. Ask questions
When communicating with your child, it's easy to ask them simple yes or no questions like "Do you want to play?" or "Do you want to take a nap?". However, asking these questions does not help expand your child's vocabulary while speaking. You can rephrase the questions and say, "Do you want to play with your dolls or with your stuffed animals?" or "Do you want to take a nap or read a book with me?" Both questions reframe the answers your child will give. The answers require them to use more words. Giving them an option between two things not only helps them with using expressive language but also aids in decision-making.
2. Correcting Mispronunciation
Often times, a child will mispronounce words when first learning them. Instead of telling them "That's wrong", it is more beneficial to model the correct pronunciation for them immediately after it occurs. This way, they will have direct feedback. You may have to do this several times before a child fully understands they are pronouncing the word incorrectly.
3. Reading Books
The more language a child is exposed to, the more their expressive vocabulary will grow. Books are full of new words for children. If you come across a word that your child is unfamiliar with, it is important to take the time to discuss what it means so the child can start to conceptualize it.
4. Strategically Placing Items
If your child has a favorite toy/item, place it somewhere only you can access. This way, your child must use their language skills to communicate when they want it. If they try to point at it instead of speaking to you, encourage them to use their words
Written by Madison Dwyer