Introduction
Children learn language best from the people around them talking about the things that are happening to them and that they are interested in. Although phones and computers are very useful, they cannot respond like you do to your child. Normal everyday routines provide the best opportunities.
Everyone involved in a child’s life can help them to begin to join words. Children learn to talk best when people talk about the things happening around them and things they are interested in.
How can I help my child to talk?
The following activities and strategies can all help your child learn to understand and to talk:
Keeping language simple
Add to your child’s talking just a little. If your child says no words, you could use one word. If your child says one word, you could help by saying two words, such as:
- child points to car
- adult points to car and says “car”
- child says “car”
- adult adds to what they said: “big car”
Using gestures
By using gestures, such as pointing when you are talking, you are helping the child to understand what words mean.
Providing experiences
Children learn language by hearing about things and doing things. Talk about your daily activities and routines. Talk about what you are doing, what things are called and why you are doing it. Your child will understand the language through their experiences and in time will start to use the words.
Giving time
Remember to give your child enough time to respond and leave gaps in your talking so that your child can attempt some words. Pause and give your child time to respond when you come across their favourite parts of your child’s story e.g. I’m Stick Man. I’m Stick Man, I’m Stick Man that’s me, and I want to go home to the family tree”.
Repeating words and ideas
New words can be difficult for your child. Try to use new words often and in different situations. For example ‘wet’ could be used in the bath, during water play and if a drink is accidentally spilled.
Singing
Sing nursery rhymes and action songs with your child and encourage them to join in with the actions. The repetitive nature of songs allows for the opportunity to pause, to see if your child will add some words or actions.
Providing listening and focus times
Turn off the TV, iPad or music so that your child can focus on you. Play games that involve taking turns, as this helps your child to engage with others. These types of games also give you a chance to show your child how to use words.
Sharing books
Books which pop-up, have flaps and bright pictures can help to keep your child interested. Talk to your child about what is happening in the pictures, pointing out what you can see.
Last reviewed October 2025