When moving or dancing with your child, instead of using the words “stop” and “go,” choose two animals. Encourage them to move when they hear the word “bird” and to stop when you say “dog.” Go back and forth between the two animals, fast and slow. Then give them a turn to lead the game.
Author: Sarah Childs
Silly Speech
Start by asking your child to choose a word. Then say it together in different ways. Use a high voice or a low voice; a loud voice or a soft voice; speak slowly or speak fast. Have fun and keep it going back and forth! Take it to the next level by having a conversation… Continue reading Silly Speech
Set the Table Together
As you and your child set the table, make it a game. Take turns holding things up and asking, “What is bigger?” or “What is smaller?” You could compare their cup and your cup or a large bowl and small bowl. What else can you play this game with?
Singing Conversations
While waiting, create singing conversations. Instead of talking back-and-forth, quietly sing what you want to say to each other. How does your child respond? Then try whispering. Keep going back and forth and make it a game.
Do What You Like Game
Ask your child to think of things they can do like jump, climb, take giant steps, or collect stones. Ask them to show you one of them. Respond with something you can do, like collect leaves or make a telescope with your hands. Go back and forth.
Guessing Game
Here is a fun guessing game while waiting. Start with, “I’m thinking of an animal.” Then give your child clues to help guess what animal it is. For example, “I’m thinking of an animal who lives in our house and is black.”
Read Everything Out Loud
Your child learns best from what you say and do, so read everything you can out loud. Read signs outside, recipes, or ads in a paper or magazine. Be sure to point at what you’re reading too. Do they imitate any of your words or sounds? Do they point, too? Go back and forth with… Continue reading Read Everything Out Loud
Describe what your child is looking at
What is your child looking at? Follow their lead and chat about what they see. “Yes, those are my shoes. And that is my hat. Do you want to try on my shoes and hat? I’ll help you!” Take turns! “Can you put my hat on my head? Now try your head. Look it is too big!”
Describe “dat”
Does your child point and say “dat”? Ask them, “What do you want?” Have them lead you to what they’re pointing at. When you find it, you can say, “That’s a spoon!” or “That’s the light switch!”
Talk About Emotions
When you’re getting ready to go out, talk about what you’re doing and how your child might be feeling. Maybe you could say, “We’re getting ready to go to the store. You’re wriggling and have a smile on your face. You seem excited. Let’s go and see what we find there.” How do they respond?… Continue reading Talk About Emotions