Developing strong oral language skills is a key component of early literacy development. As a parent, there are many ways you can support your child’s oral language skills, and have fun while doing it!
1. Talk, talk, talk!
One of the easiest ways to support oral language development is to engage in frequent conversations with your child. Ask open-ended questions, such as “What was your favorite part of the day?” or “What do you think will happen next in the story?” Encourage your child to express themselves by actively listening and responding to what they say.
2. Storytime is key
Reading books with your child is a wonderful way to support oral language development. As you read, pause to ask your child questions about the story and the characters. Encourage your child to predict what might happen next, or to retell the story in their own words. This helps them develop their vocabulary, comprehension, and sequencing skills.
3. Play with language
Playing with language can be a fun way to support oral language development. Play word games, such as “I Spy” or “Name that Sound,” or create silly rhymes and songs together. These activities can help your child develop their phonemic awareness skills, which are essential for reading and writing.
4. Expose your child to new experiences
Taking your child to new places and exposing them to new experiences can help build their oral language skills. Visit museums, parks, and zoos, and encourage your child to describe what they see and hear. This can help them develop their descriptive language skills, as well as their ability to make connections between different experiences.
5. Encourage play
Play is a natural way for children to develop their oral language skills. Encourage your child to engage in imaginative play, such as playing “house” or “store.” This can help them develop their social language skills, as well as their ability to problem-solve and negotiate with others.
Remember, supporting your child’s oral language development doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Simply incorporating these activities into your daily routine can make a big difference in your child’s language skills and overall literacy development.
At VantEDGEpoint, we’re committed to supporting families and educators in promoting literacy and learning for young children. Check out our website over the coming months for more resources and tips on how to support your child’s growth and development. Happy Reading!