The Advantage and Joy Of Highly Developed Language Skills!

We have always placed a strong emphasis on communication.

Why?

1.Because we believe all children are capable of achieving that goal.

2.It makes interaction with an infant, toddler, and young child measurably more successful and rewarding.

3.Because we have proven that our approach benefits every single child and is transferable to any size group as well as an individual child.

How does it work?

1.Regardless of the child’s age, all caregivers (parents, nannies, relative, daycare workers) must communicate in concise, appropriate, clearly enunciated phrases and sentences every single time they speak.

2.Develop clear short phrases for frequently repeated actions and tasks.

3.Ensure all communication is grammatically correct.

4.Do not distort the language adding “ie” or “y” sounds to words. It is not make it sound cute, it is simply incorrect.

5.When a child is mispronouncing a word or making their statement difficult to understand, do not repeat what they said! Instead, say it again correctly. If they continue to try to enunciate correctly, stick with them and congratulate them when they improve.

6.Repeating an incorrect pronunciation of a word only confuses them, they are actually trying to imitate you!

A typical plan could be:

1.Set aside some time each day to practice sounds they may be challenged by. If a child has used any motions or devices to satisfy their sensory needs after the age of one i.e. pacifier, thumb or any soft item, they may be still sucking on, this actually may have delayed their tongue and oral cavity muscles from developing properly to support good speech skills. In this case you will need to work with them to reduce or discontinue these behaviors in order to help them achieve correct speech. A good resource is a CD called “Speechercise” by Twin Sisters Productions. We have used this before on some of our children.

2.Get in the habit of always using the correct words in order to broaden their vocabulary.

3.When they deliver any grammatically incorrect statement, this is how you handle is. Say, “This is how you say that” and have them repeat it correctly. It is amazing how quickly they catch on.
Apply this principle throughout the day. A major reward is how quickly they will successfully use these skills in their own verbal interaction.

Since you are already know that they are intelligent from the day they are born, you can expect them to sound intelligent if you make the educated investment in developing speech skills.

The best feedback we get is from our parents when their child is in a social situation with their peers.
Their confidence and skills always stand out, even to their own parents  as well as everyone in attendance.

The reward is everyone’s!