Parenting Tips - Pre-schooler’s

 

Pre-schooler’s

Talking

• Preschoolers are learning about words and meanings. Their language development happens in bursts.

• They like to play and experiment with words and they need time to use and practice both.

• Talking about things the preschooler can see, touch, taste, smell and feel will help them connect words to real things.

• You can be a model for your children by discussing and living according to your own beliefs and values. But remember, children grow and their views may change with age and experience.

• Talking involves many skills like:

• paying attention to the speaker and listening to the words • understanding what has been said • thinking about an appropriate response • forming words and saying them • waiting and checking that the other person has understood.

• We do many of these things automatically, without thinking about them. Breaking down these skills into smaller steps can help.

For example to help a child listen you can:

• say 'listen now' • get down to their height so their face is level with yours • stop, look and listen to them when they talk to you.

• To help them understand you can:

• get them to tell you in their own words what you said • keep your sentences short • use the word 'like': 'It is like ....' • help them remember past things: 'What does it remind you of?'

• To help them give an appropriate response you can:

• wait and give them time to answer • smile, nod and give them encouraging signals • say 'I'm listening'.

• To help them with their speech you can:

• speak clearly • repeat back to them what they have said.

• To help them wait for a response you can:

• say 'Wait while I think about my answer' • slow down your speech.

• If you are worried about your child's progress check with your doctor or child care professional.