Five Ways to Support Language Development

As adults, we tend to choose books and articles that use descriptive language. Words like dazzling, velvety, and crackling are exciting and catch our attention. It is no different for our children! The ability to understand and use descriptive language is a powerful tool that lays the foundation for comprehension and communication skills.

Use Descriptive Language to Build Vocabulary

You play a vital role in your child’s language development. Model using rich, descriptive words, and don’t be afraid of using vocabulary that may be unfamiliar to your child in everyday conversation. Speaking as you normally would gives your child plenty of opportunities for exposure to new words.

You don’t need to teach your child new words. Involving them in daily activities is a great way to build language skills. You are probably doing it already! Structured activities (such as reading aloud) and unstructured activities (such as free play) encourage language development. Each one is important and provides practice in meaningful ways.

Try These Ideas:

• Play new games: Instead of a typical I Spy game, choose something you can see and use a variety of words (not just color) to describe the object. Encourage your child to guess what you are thinking about. Then, change roles and let them describe an object while you guess.
  
  
• Encourage pretend play: Role-playing can be the perfect time to introduce new, descriptive language. For example, ask your child to take on the role of a meteorologist and describe the weather.
  
  
• Expand your conversations: Surrounding your child with a language-rich environment is easier than you might think. When talking to your child, encourage them to elaborate on their responses. Use prompting questions such as, “Can you tell me more about that?”
  
  
• Use rich descriptions: Use detailed and descriptive words when you speak. Instead of saying, “Look at that puppy,” you might say, “Look at that fluffy, brown puppy. He’s very rambunctious!”
  
  
• Read lively books: Make reading a consistent, daily habit. Have various age-appropriate books available and encourage your child to participate by repeating words and completing sentences. Using an expressive voice and talking about unfamiliar words will help your child develop a robust vocabulary and support their reading ability. Try these:
  
  
• In the Tall, Tall Grass by Denise Fleming
• A Gift for Amma: Market Day in India by Meera Sriram
• Some Bugs by Angela DiTerlizzi

Language learning starts in the home at an early age. By creating a nurturing, language-rich environment, you will naturally enhance your child’s language skills. Every interaction provides an opportunity to build a moment of learning.