Have you ever guessed what your child was trying to say? Do you know what they want already once they start gesturing, vocalizing, or doing an action? Linguistic mapping is strategy uses that anticipation and "guessing" to give language to your child's behavior. This is an awesome strategy that gives words to your child’s actions! You observe their actions and cues, see that they want or need something, and model language for them in context and in their voice!
How to use:
Model the words for them when the action is happening, or immediately after, so that the words hold more meaning for them.
How this helps:
When you follow your child’s lead and give them words for their actions, gestures, and other non-speaking communication, it provides models that are more meaningful for them in real-time.
This increases their motivation and encourages them to respond and engage more with you and their environment naturally!
How to practice at home:
Pointing and vocalizing- “want chips, more milk, open door, let’s go outside, turn on TV”
Reaching and grabbing- “Mommy/Daddy up, need potty, look, wanna go now, my turn”
Pulling or pushing you- “let’s go, play time, look at this, wanna go here, in the kitchen”
Giving you something- “look at toy, help me open, make it go, more music, your turn”
Laughing/smiling and looking- "this is fun, so silly, I like this, let's do more, I'm happy"
Try this strategy at home and have fun following their lead!
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