Are you eager to help your toddler learn to talk? The process is both exciting and rewarding, but sometimes we unintentionally make mistakes that can delay their language development. In this video by Emma Hubbard, you’ll discover three common mistakes that many parents make and how these mistakes can hinder your toddler’s progress. While it’s completely normal to make these mistakes, understanding why they can slow down the process and learning what to do instead will help you avoid potential frustrations and delays in your toddler’s language learning journey. So let’s dive in and explore these helpful techniques that will make teaching your toddler to talk even more enjoyable!
Mistake Number 1: Asking your toddler lots of questions
Asking your toddler lots of questions may seem like a great way to improve their language development. After all, toddlers don’t yet have the words to communicate what they want, need, or are thinking, so naturally, we ask questions to find out. However, you might be surprised to discover that this isn’t actually the case. In fact, asking our toddlers too many questions can actually discourage them from talking.
For toddlers who are learning to talk, being on the receiving end of endless questions can make them feel like they’re under immense pressure. Instead of encouraging them to talk, this pressure can make it harder for the toddler to think of the word and then say it, often resulting in them not saying anything at all.
So while it may seem counterintuitive, instead of asking your toddler a barrage of questions, try starting with commenting on what your toddler is doing or saying. For example, instead of asking them, “Are you playing with a dinosaur?” or pointing to the dinosaur and asking, “What’s that?”, say something like, “Your dinosaur is so big and loud!” or “Your dinosaur is stomping!” By making this small tweak, your toddler is going to find you way more interesting and be motivated to interact with you. They will either copy your actions or repeat the words you have said, which will help them understand the power of communicating and learn what words mean in a fun and engaging way.
Mistake Number 2: Withholding items until the correct word is said
Another common mistake parents make when trying to encourage their toddlers to speak is withholding items until the toddler says the correct word. The assumption here is that the toddler is deliberately choosing not to say the word and that withholding the item will motivate them to use their words.
However, this assumption is unlikely to be true. Toddlers are not deliberately withholding words just to get on your nerves. Most of the time, if a toddler is not saying a word, it’s because they either don’t know the word yet or cannot remember it in that moment.
Instead of withholding the item, try teaching the toddler the desired word. For example, if your toddler wants an apple, instead of holding the apple in your hands and saying, “Use your words to tell me what you want!”, give your toddler the apple if they look at it, babble, point to it, or gesture towards it. And when you give them the apple, repeat the word “apple” multiple times. This repetition helps the toddler learn what the word means, so they will be able to say it when they are ready.
By teaching the desired word instead of withholding the item, you are creating a positive and supportive environment for your toddler to learn and practice their language skills.
Mistake Number 3: Repeating toddlers’ unique word approximations
As parents, we often find the unique word approximations that our toddlers come up with cute and endearing. It’s tempting to repeat these words back to them or even adopt these word approximations ourselves instead of using the proper words. However, this can actually hinder your toddler’s language development.
Each time we repeat these incorrect words back to our toddlers, we are reinforcing the incorrect word. This makes it difficult for your toddler to learn how to say the word correctly. Furthermore, if your toddler were to try and ask an unfamiliar adult for an item using their unique word, it could result in frustration and tantrums because the adult has no idea what they are asking for.
Instead of repeating your toddler’s unique words back to them, say the correct word. For example, if your toddler says “wawawawa” instead of “water”, don’t repeat “wawawawa” back to them. Say, “Water. You want your water? Here is your water, drink your water.” By stating the correct words back to your toddler, you are teaching them the correct word, which they can use when they are able to say it.
Using correct words to teach reinforces the correct pronunciation and ensures effective communication with others, reducing frustration for both your toddler and the people they interact with.
Preventing Toddler Tantrums
As your toddler is learning to talk, you may notice that they become frustrated and have tantrums. Dealing with toddler tantrums can be challenging, and it would be much easier if we could prevent them from occurring in the first place. The good news is that we have the power to significantly reduce the number of tantrums our little ones have by removing triggers that can lead to tantrums.
Understanding toddler tantrum frustration is crucial for preventing them. Toddlers often have limited communication skills, and not being able to express themselves can be extremely frustrating for them. They may resort to physical and emotional outbursts to express their needs and desires.
Identifying triggers for tantrums is the first step in preventing them. Common triggers include hunger, tiredness, boredom, overstimulation, or difficulty with a task. By being aware of these triggers and addressing them proactively, we can help reduce the likelihood of tantrums occurring.
To reduce tantrums, here are a few tips:
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Establish a consistent routine: Toddlers thrive on routine, as it gives them a sense of security and predictability. Stick to a regular schedule for meals, naps, and bedtime to help prevent hunger and tiredness from triggering tantrums.
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Provide choices within limits: Giving toddlers a sense of autonomy and control can help prevent tantrums. Offer limited choices, such as asking if they want to wear the red or blue shirt, which helps them feel empowered.
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Offer distractions and redirection: If you notice your toddler becoming frustrated or on the verge of a tantrum, offer a distraction or redirect their attention to something else. Engage them in a new activity or show them a favorite toy.
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Use positive reinforcement: Praise and reward your toddler for good behavior and using their words appropriately. Positive reinforcement encourages them to continue using their words and reduces the need for tantrums to communicate their needs.
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Stay calm and empathetic: When a tantrum does occur, it’s essential to stay calm and understanding. This modeling of emotional regulation can help your toddler learn how to manage their emotions effectively.
By implementing these strategies consistently, you can create a more harmonious environment for your toddler and reduce the frequency and intensity of tantrums.
Conclusion
Teaching a toddler to talk is an exciting and rewarding process for both parents and the child. However, it’s essential to be mindful of the common mistakes that can delay their language development. Asking your toddler lots of questions, withholding items until the correct word is said, and repeating toddlers’ unique word approximations are three mistakes to avoid.
Instead, try encouraging comments instead of questions, teaching the desired word instead of withholding the item, and using correct words to teach. These small changes can make a significant difference in your toddler’s language development and help them learn to communicate effectively.
Additionally, understanding toddler tantrum frustration, identifying triggers for tantrums, and implementing strategies to prevent tantrums can create a more peaceful and enjoyable experience for both you and your toddler as they navigate the world of language learning.
Remember, it’s normal to make these mistakes, and it’s never too late to make changes. By incorporating these techniques into your everyday interactions with your toddler, you can support their language development, minimize frustration, and strengthen your bond through communication.