Many parents and caregivers prompt their child to speak using the word, “say.” “Say blue! Say Mommy!” While intentions are good, it’s not the most effective way to encourage your child’s language. Here’s why: Repeating the words only shows that the child can copythe word. Copying and repeating doesn’t indicate that they understand what the word means or that they will use that word again on their own. The word “say,” is a demand that requires and pressures your child to respond. By making speaking a task, we take away the spontaneous nature of communication and power of their communication. Instead, create opportunities for spontaneous, interactive, and enjoyable exchanges. We do this by replacing the word “say” with modeling.
Example: “Say car” becomes, “Car! It’s a car. The car is fast. Go car!” or “Say snack” can be “Snack! Yum! Let’s eat a snack. I like snacks. Mmm snack!”
Modeling and adding variety to your models makes for a rich-language environment that supports and encourages your child’s language way more than “say”!
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