Nurturing a 1- to 2-year-old's speech and language development

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Nurturing a 1- to 2-year-old's speech and language development

These are some things you can do to help your 1- to 2-year-old learn words and say simple sentences:

• Tell your child what you are doing. Say, "I am changing your diaper" and "I'm washing your face" when interacting with your child. Always speak slowly and clearly to your child. Tell her or him the names of favorite toys and other common objects around the house.
• Read to your child every day from books with colorful pictures, and point to the pictures while you read. Read books that are made of cloth or cardboard so that your child can hold them and turn the pages. Visit the library regularly.
• Limit the amount of time your child watches television. About 30 minutes or less each day is plenty.
• Take turns when talking. Ask your child a question and wait for an answer. Let him or her take the lead in conversations. For example, if your child says "da-da-da," repeat it to show that you are picking up on the conversation.
• Praise your child when he or she correctly labels a familiar object. When your child says "doggie" and points to a dog, reply, "Yes, that is a doggie."
• Don't imitate your child's unclear speech, constantly correct, or embarrass your child by making him or her repeat unclear words, especially when other people are around. Correct your child in a positive way by rephrasing, repeating, and relabeling.
• Sing simple songs with your child, such as "Happy Birthday." Encourage your child to talk with others, including other children his or her age.

Credits

Last updated:	January 05, 2007
Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC