Teaching Your Preschooler Speech and Language Skills
Exposing Your Child to Words
Exposing Children to Words
Would you believe that even in this day and time, there are young children that have speech and language difficulties because of lack of exposure to words? I found it difficult to comprehend but after meeting some such students, I saw that the problem does indeed exist.
This deficit in speech and language significantly affects a child’s learning abilities. While other youngsters are able to comprehend what one would normally take for granted, a child with this disability doesn’t understand. This leads to confusion for the child and a lack of self esteem.
It is of the utmost importance to expose your child to a multitude of words. This can be accomplished in many ways. One of the easiest things to do is to simply talk to your child throughout the day, indicating to him/her the names of everyday items, such as stove, computer, tree, etc. You can then expand on this by naming the different types of things, such as fir tree, pine tree, apple tree, adding descriptive words in your conversation and including adjectives and adverbs in your language.
Another easy task is to simply model for your child. Your child is watching and listening to you. You play an important role in their learning. Use proper grammar and polite manners. They will learn to follow suit.
Some children simply do not know words because they have never heard them spoken. Be descriptive in your speech. Take your time and don’t talk hurriedly. Listen to the questions your children ask and do your best to attempt to answer their inquiries.
Reading is an excellent way to increase a youngster’s language skills. I can’t stress enough the importance of reading, reading, and more reading. From picture books with few words to interesting, exciting adventure stories, one’s knowledge increases each time they are read to.
Make learning fun. Playing games is a great way to encourage your child to learn new vocabulary. This can be relatively inexpensive, flash cards and games can be made with index cards or items readily available in your home. Be creative.
Have magazines and pamphlets readily available to youngsters. Point to pictures and name what is happening. Talk about colors, pointing out them and having your child find something of the same color. Go for a walk and “Look for red” one day and choose another color or theme another day.
Take advantage of opportunities to incorporate play in to learning. For example, use play phones to have conversations with your child taking turns being the caller and the recipient of the call.
Hang bright, colorful posters in the playroom or bedroom. Talk about them when you walk by them. Count objects such as blocks, dolls or other things that interest your child. Don’t limit yourself or them.
Do not underestimate the power of words. What a wonderful tool to gift your child with. Exposing children to vocabulary is an investment in their future. It’s an investment that yields high rewards.
Isn’t your child worth it? Take some time today to talk, play, listen, create and answer questions your child may ask.
