As children grow up, there are a number of things parents find that they have to teach their little one. From learning how to eat independently to making sure they wash their hands regularly, it seems there are so many tiny details that are not mentioned in what would be a child handbook. Along with this, children slowly gain the ability to express themselves better, through their body language, facial expressions, and of course, their words.
Their language abilities and vocabulary should be expanding rapidly when they are young, as this is the time when their natural curiosity will push them to learn the most. The use of words alone plays a huge role in helping young children express their thoughts and emotions clearly.
They are a necessity when it comes to communication, and act as a foundation for skills needed to help navigate their way through life, which includes listening, reading, writing and speaking.
As a parent, you play a vital role in ensuring your child has the best opportunities to expand and secure a good set of words. Eager to know more? Here are some tips from this prep school in Potters Bar, on helping your child develop their vocabulary.
Speak to them
The first and most simple way to help your child develop their vocabulary, is to simply ensure that you are speaking to them all the time. Whilst many believe that the trick to helping children advance is through the use of expensive toys and services, the truth is, it is the simple routes that work out to be the most effective in the long run.
Talking to your child takes no time and effort at all, as it is something that is done without a second thought. However, when talking to your little one, ensure that you avoid using simple terms. Children are very much like sponges, and absorb everything they hear others around them say.
Whilst your child may not completely understand the definition or relevance of the word ‘endearing’, using words similar to these in your daily language, will ensure your child has the chance to pick up on them and gradually add them to their vocabulary. Allow the talking to go two ways, as this gives your little one the opportunity to ask what certain words mean, a sign that their curiosity is at bay and working hard.
Read together
There are some arguments out there that claim that reading is the key to success in life. Whilst this definitely needs a little more understanding and a little digging beneath the surface, it is understandable why many have come to this conclusion.
Reading is the perfect way for an individual to learn anything, especially with the amount of genres available. As a parent, you should encourage reading and incorporate it as an activity completed from the moment your child is born. For example, when your child is still very little, you can make it a routine to read together every day. Even when you are the one doing the reading, your child will be intrigued by the new words they are hearing every day.
As they get older, they can take over the role of being the reader. Be sure to provide simple, child friendly definitions for when they ask you what certain words mean. It is important not to take too long discussing it, and simply go back to it after you’ve finished reading, to see if they remember what you’ve taught them.
Having a rich vocabulary is key to success when it comes to growing and progressing in life. Take on these strategies above to help your child develop their vocabulary whilst they are young.
Thank you for reading.
