Encouraging Language Development

Tips from a NIMBA parent, based on speech therapy sessions with twins

NIMBA member shares key insights from her twins’ speech therapy journey.
A central lesson? Letting children lead. Rather than steering every conversation or activity, creating space for toddlers to initiate and guide interaction can significantly support language growth.

Let your child lead
Instead of prompting or questioning too quickly, observe what your child is focused on. Join in their play with genuine interest and wait before speaking—this encourages them to initiate communication using words, sounds, or gestures.

Build conversations
Once your child initiates, respond with simple comments or open-ended questions (e.g., “What’s happening here?” or “That truck is carrying a big load!”). If they don’t respond, keep it going with another observation—comments can often be more effective than questions.

Focus on turn-taking
Back-and-forth interactions—where both you and your child take turns—are more beneficial for language development than passive exposure to speech (e.g. TV). Aim for at least three exchanges in each interaction.

Make the most of story time
Books can be interactive. Start by discussing the cover and pictures rather than reading word-for-word. Ask what they think might happen next, mimic character expressions, and connect the story to real-life experiences. Encourage retelling using “who, where, what” prompts.

These simple, connection-focused strategies can make a big difference in supporting toddlers’ language development.

This article was first published in NIMBA member newsletter Noah’s Ark, Issue 314 | June 2024