First Words
Here's What To Do
When you're teaching me the names of common objects, use lots of repetition. The best way for me to learn is to hear the word over and over again.
If I gesture that I want something, say the word for the object and use it in a short sentence.
When I begin to try to say words, I might use one word to communicate a complete thought. Try to guess what I mean and repeat it back to me in a sentence.
Try to model short phrases that I might be able to say, like: "More!," "All gone," or "Want up!"
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- When you're helping me learn new words, try to make eye contact so I focus on what you're saying.
Engage:
- Repeat words often in context. For example, when I'm drinking, you could say: "Here's your cup!" "You're drinking from your cup!" "Please give me your cup!"
- Label things I am gesturing towards, like: "Car? You want your car."
Encourage:
- When I mispronounce a word, repeat it back to me correctly in a short sentence. For example, if I say "da," say, "Yes, that's your doll!"
- Ask and answer your own questions, like: "What's that? It's a doggie, a furry dog!"
Reflect:
- What are my first words? It could be fun to keep a list of my first words to look back on later.
Not quite ready?
If I'm not saying many words yet, keep talking to me a lot. I learn best by hearing you say the words, and soon I'll start to say them on my own.
Ready for more?
Keep talking to me a lot. I'll keep adding more and more words to my vocabulary!
As your child masters this skill...
They will begin to say a few words.