TIPS: YOUNG CHILDREN PRIORITY ONE - Julie Beebe

Submitted by Rosemary Cummings

Communication is something most of us take for granted.  We use words, gestures, facial expressions and body language to get our message across.  Children, those that are verbal and those that are non-verbal, are able to let us know their wants and needs. When a baby cries, it means one of a few things; they're hungry, wet, tired or want attention.  As they grow older their needs become more complex.  It's our job as parents, family members, or friends to help the children become good communicators.  Here are some ways you can help your preschooler communicate:

Include your child in your talk.  Besides having him tell you about his day, include your preschooler in back-and-forth mealtime conversations.  For example, ask what he thinks about his older brother's soccer game. Show your interest.  Pay close attention to your preschooler when he's talking.  Ask questions so that he will tell you more.  You'll help him know that his thoughts and words are important.

Read and Reread.  Your preschooler likes you to read favorite books over and over again.  Your child will learn the meanings of new words and notice new things each time you read a book.  Choose books that both you and your child will enjoy.  Julie Beebe-YCPO

Act out stories.  Have your child join you in acting out and retelling favorite stories with dolls or stuffed animals.  This is a fun way to use language, and it gives your child a chance to use his own words and sentences to tell the story.