In the kitchen with your child, describe what you’re doing, especially if you notice they’re interested in something, like pouring water in a bowl or cup. Say things like, “Water goes in the cup.” See how they respond. They might look at you and then look at the cup.
Author: Sarah Childs
Showing Hunger
Show your child how to tell you they’re feeling hungry by touching their hand to their mouth or rubbing their belly. If you do this over and over and then give them food while saying the word “hungry,” they will pick up the symbol and learn to talk to you with their hands.
Dinner Time Talk
As you feed your child, tell them what you see. “I see your fingers picking up a piece of food.” “I see your mouth chewing a banana”. “I see you drinking with your mouth.” If they make a sound or say a word, repeat it to create a back and forth conversation. Babbling and talking… Continue reading Dinner Time Talk
Dinner Time Story
When feeding your child, use that time to tell them a story. You can make one up or share something that happened when you were a child. When they respond to your voice and make a sound, repeat the same sound back to them.
Detective
How does your child tell you they’re hungry? Do they fuss? Turn their head toward the bottle or breast? Look at you? How do they tell you they’ve had enough? Do they turn away? Stop eating? Push away? You can be a detective. Look for the clues and talk to them about what you think… Continue reading Detective
Muffin Tin Plate
Do you have a muffin tin or ice tray at home? Take small pieces of your child’s finger foods and put them in different sections of the tin or tray. Leave some empty spaces so they can move pieces around. Describe out loud what they’re doing, “You moved the cracker over!”
Blanket Game
Place your child on their back on a blanket. Holding either side of the blanket above their head, gently lift the sides and move them up almost into a sitting position. Look into their eyes, smile, and speak to them then gently lower them back down. If they enjoyed it, do it again!
Car Color Game
Before you go out, ask your child what color of car they think is the most popular. Invite them to count how many cars of that color they see along the way. At the same time, you look for a different color and keep track too. Then talk about what you found out together.
Where Are We Going Game
Talk with your child as you drive, take a bus, or however you get around. Ask them what they think will happen when they get where you are going. You could ask them who they will see, or what they will do when they get there. What will they do after that? Stretch the chat… Continue reading Where Are We Going Game
Point Out Signs
When you’re out and about, point out simple signs and ask your child what they think they mean. If they get it wrong, remind them it’s a good try, and ask them to keep trying. Point out clues! (There is a barber inside, so the sign says “Haircuts”).