How to talk to children:

I sometimes wonder why people tend to “baby talk”. Why, do we need to speak in a sweet and basically incoherent manner to little children? Why in a sing song? Are they a different species? Do they feel better when spoken to like that? It’s fun to coo to babies but it can be harmful to their language development. Although, singing and talking softly is perfectly OK, when the talk becomes incoherent or sounds gibberish it impedes development.

How vocabulary can impact children:

When children are spoken to in full clear sentences they tend to speak faster and with a better vocabulary. Of course, this is not always the case, however to give your children the step ahead, change the way you talk.

There are many studies that show that talking and reading to children improve brain development. In addition, it boosts the child’s language skills that will have tremendous benefits even helping them with math in their later years.

Let conversation be conversation. When asking children questions, do not ask for one word answers! Question students and children to think before replying. This will help them build their cognitive and language skills and acquisition. Take a look at great questions below you will be surprised at the great responses you can get.

How to improve your children’s or students vocabulary:

• When reading a book, read the words written do not input your own words.
• Let children talk in full sentences. When they point to a cup and they say “drink” say- ” oh, you want a drink- ask, can I please have a drink?”
• Interchange words often such as say ” This is very nice, it is magnificent.”
• Talk and talk- have a conversation with them, ask questions and wait for answers
• Model and talk as you do something- ” I am going to write a note now.”

It is important to note that each age level has different capabilities however with all ages keep to the basics. No sweet talk, read and talk full sentences. Read and read some more.

Happy reading!