As a parent, you are your child’s first and most important teacher—and that includes helping them grow their speech and language skills. Whether your child is just starting to talk or putting short sentences together, early communication is key to learning, connection, and confidence.
The preschool years (ages 3–5) are a critical time for building these skills. In fact, the earlier a child gets support for speech or language delays, the better their long-term outcomes. This is why early intervention and simple, everyday practice at home can be so powerful.
Here are 8 fun and effective ways to support your preschooler’s communication at home, inspired by guidance from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA):
1. Talk About the Day
Narrate your child’s daily routine to build vocabulary and sentence structure.
- Example: “First, we’re brushing your teeth. Then, we’ll put on your pajamas.”
This helps your child connect actions with words, and encourages them to use sequencing language like first, next, and then.
2. Read Together Every Day
Reading books aloud is one of the best ways to build language. Choose books with repetition, rhyming, or clear storylines.
- Pause to ask questions like, “What do you think will happen next?” or “Why is the bear sad?”
Early literacy skills start with strong listening and understanding!
3. Expand on What They Say
If your child says, “Truck go,” you can respond with, “Yes, the big red truck is going fast!” This models more complex language and helps them build longer sentences over time.
4. Sing Songs and Rhymes
Music supports memory and speech rhythm. Classic songs like The Wheels on the Bus or Old MacDonald are great for repetition and turn-taking.
- Singing also helps with sound awareness and early phonics—important for future reading success.
5. Practice Listening and Following Directions
Use simple instructions with one or two steps: “Pick up your toy and put it in the bin.”
- Games like Simon Says or scavenger hunts also help your child practice listening and processing language.
6. Play Pretend Together
Pretend play (e.g., having a tea party or playing doctor) encourages storytelling, role-play, and use of new vocabulary.
- It also helps develop social communication skills like greetings, eye contact, and taking turns in conversation.
7. Talk About Feelings
Encourage your child to name and describe their emotions.
- Try saying, “I see you’re frowning. Are you feeling sad?” Then give them the words to explain: “You feel sad because your toy broke.”
Understanding and expressing emotions is a big part of social language.
8. Ask Open-Ended Questions
Instead of yes/no questions, try asking, “What did you build with your blocks today?” or “How did you make that color?”
Open-ended questions invite conversation and let your child practice using full thoughts and explanations.
Why Early Intervention Matters
If you’re noticing your child isn’t meeting speech or language milestones for their age, don’t wait—early intervention can make a big difference. The earlier a child receives support, the easier it is to catch up and thrive in communication and learning.
Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are specially trained to assess and support children with delays in speech, understanding, expression, and social communication. They often work as part of an early intervention team alongside behavior therapists and occupational therapists.
Speech Therapy and Early Intervention in West Long Branch
At Graham Behavior Services, we offer Speech Therapy and Early Intervention services for children ages birth through five at our clinic in West Long Branch, NJ.
We accept Medicaid and private insurance, and we’re here to support your child’s unique developmental journey with compassionate, play-based care.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation or learn more about our programs!
Sources:
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). 8 Speech and Language Skills to Practice With Your Preschooler at Home
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Developmental Milestones
