Learning language is a two-way street!

Every time you sing her a song, read her a story, or repeat a nursery rhyme, your toddler learns about language. Your child learns by imitating you and by catching your enthusiasm.

In their eagerness to teach little ones about language, some parents forget that language goes two ways. Children must hear people use language, but they also need adults to listen and respond to their words. Let your toddler tell you stories, “read” books to you, describe things she has seen, and answer your questions.

Help her make songs up; encourage her to rhyme words or make up new words. Listen carefully – and show your child that what she says is important to you.