Descriptive Words
Here's What To Do
1
Throughout the day, while you’re interacting with each other, playing or running errands, think of different descriptive words you can use.
2
For example, if your child says that a dog is “really big,” you can say, “Yes, it’s humongous.” Then, quickly brainstorm other synonyms together.
3
Use this activity as an opportunity to share new and more complex words with your child, and watch how their vocabulary grows!
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Take a moment and pause with your child as they are engaged in their daily activities.
E
Engage:
- “You said your shirt is beautiful. I think it’s stunning too! It has a lot of distinctive colors.”
- “You think it’s hot outside? Yes, it’s scorching hot!”
E
Encourage:
- Include new words in context to support your child’s vocabulary development.
- “That car must have just been washed and polished. It’s so shiny, it’s gleaming!”
R
Reflect:
- “What do you like to describe and talk about?”
Not quite ready?
Focus on consistently incorporating a few new descriptive words for simple characteristics, such as size, before introducing other words.
Ready for more?
Encourage your child to include descriptive words when they create stories, or describe events and memories.
As your child masters this skill...
They will apply new descriptive vocabulary when communicating.