Children who lead get the language they need – Every time your child starts an interaction with you and you respond by talking about what they’re focused on, they hear language that matches the things they’re interested in at that very moment. That’s when the best learning takes place. 

Conversational turns don’t need to include words – The more turns your child takes in a conversation, the more opportunities they have to learn.  But conversational turns don’t need to include words. They can be anything your child does to communicate during an interaction, including the use of body language, facial expressions, gestures and sound.

Environment matters – Building your child’s communication in their natural environment makes it easier for them to learn and use the skills in new situations.

Parent-implemented intervention works – Studies show that when parents are involved in their child’s early language intervention, their child’s confidence, language and social skills improve. 

Tip  1: Observe, Wait, and Listen (OWL™)

In order to observe and listen to your child, you need to stop and wait, without talking. Waiting not only gives you the time you need to notice what your child is interested in, but it also sends your child the message that it’s their turn, making it more likely they will send you a message. While you are waiting, observe your child closely to see what they are doing and how they might be communicating with you. Listen to any sounds or words your child uses. All of these things are clues about your child’s interests in the moment.

Tip 2: Be Face to Face with Your Child 

Make sure you are at the same physical level as your child so you can see each other’s faces. This lets you see what your child is doing and lets your child see that you are interested.

Tip 3: Abandon Your Plan 

It’s tempting to tell or show your child what to do or to ask questions in an attempt to get your child to communicate. However, the more you do or say, the less your child may communicate, resulting in an interaction that doesn’t keep going. Instead, abandon your plan and just go with the flow! Follow your child’s ideas and see where it takes you.

Tip 4: Join In and Play Like a Child 

If your child isn’t yet using words consistently, a great way to follow their lead is to get your own toy and copy what they’re doing! If your child is pushing a train on the track, push your own train on the track, then stop and see what happens next. If your child is feeding a doll with a spoon, grab your own doll or stuffed animal and feed it or give it a drink, saying “mmmm, he likes that!” or “That’s yummy!”. If your child speaks in short sentences, you might say a bit more like, “The baby likes that juice. Mmmm. It’s delicious!” Remember to be playful and to wait after you take a turn to give your child a chance to take another turn.