One of the greatest skills a human can learn is how to properly communicate and these lessons begin as soon as a child is born. From the very beginning their cries, their squeaks and their small movements are all ways they are testing out communicating their needs.
As helpful as certain cries and squeaks may be to the observant parent, it’s important to help a child develop effective language. These skills help a child become a better listener, reader and communicator in the future. What parent doesn’t want that?
Developing these skills doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, it comes naturally for all children through playing, listening, talking and interacting with those around them, but one of the easiest ways to help your child develop language and literacy skills is by simply holding a conversation with them. No matter their age, even if your baby responds with babbles, the more you talk, the more they learn.
Humans are very social, and we thrive off interactions with those around us. Studies have found back and forth conversation may be even more beneficial for your child’s brain than simply reading to them or exposing them to more words.
Having a conversation with a baby is easier said than done. Begin by simply describing what you are doing and where you are going. Give your baby time to respond before adding more detail or the next steps in your process.
As soon as your baby responds, talk back. Show them what an engaged listener looks like. This helps them learn a conversation is back and forth and as they age these conversations can include new vocabulary too.
Even before a child has words, you can ask them open-ended questions and respond as if their answer was perfect. This builds their confidence in answering those questions when they do have the words for it and helps them recognize when they are being asked for information. These small patterns in conversation and inflection of voices are important context.
As your child begins to develop words, repeat what they say and mirror their enthusiasm when it's shown. These small actions build trust and confidence and though your reaction may be slightly exaggerated, it helps them make important connections.
One of the biggest challenges parents mention is feeling like they don’t have time to stop and have a conversation, but the good news is you don’t have to stop what you are doing. Many parents of older children will tell you one of the best times to talk to your child is in the car or even while you are cooking. Even a few minutes before bedtime can be the perfect time to connect with your child, talk about their day and help them develop language skills.
Studies have shown even TV shows and apps touted as “educational” are not as effective at building language skills as everyday conversations with a real human. While it may feel awkward at first, having conversations with your baby is a gift parents can give that will have an impact for the rest of their life.
Child Crisis Arizona offers free virtual and in-person parenting classes centered around teaching positive parenting skills that build strong families.
