How These 3 Simple Tricks Improved this Child's Speech
Practical strategies that parents can use at home to support their child's speech development.
During your child's early life, it is perfectly normal for them to have ups and downs when it comes to their speech. Scientists have proven that every child learns at their own pace, meaning that you shouldn't feel stressed if your child is struggling to pick up a few words.
If you begin to notice that your child is falling behind many other children of the same age, there is no need to panic, as there are many ways in which you can get the help and support you need.
Last year, we worked alongside a boy of the age of 6 who was falling behind in terms of his speech. He was finding it difficult to find certain words, often mixing up words or pausing for long times between sentences. We advised on using 3 simple tricks at home that could be used to help him develop his speech.
1. Read Books
One of the simplest things you can do to help your child's speech is to read books with them. If they are struggling, you can begin by simply reading to them. Have them follow the words in the book while you read. This is a great exercise to do with books that make use of pictures. Children begin to associate certain pictures with the words that come with them, significantly improving their speaking skills. Once your child feels comfortable following the words, slowly begin to ask them to read a few of the words in the book.
2. Work With Flashcards
Touch and feel flashcards are a fantastic way to improve your child's speaking ability. They help your child to engage not only through what they are seeing, but also what they are feeling on the card themselves. You can use this as an opportunity to ask your child what the card feels like, as well as what is on the flashcard themselves. We believe that such methods grant a fun learning experience for both you and your child!
3. Give Praise
Giving praise for your child's efforts is one of the easiest ways you can help to aid their speech development. No matter whether they are right or wrong, by encouraging effort you provide them with greater confidence to speak and use speech in their daily life. By improving your child's confidence, you will also help to improve their speech over time.
So, there you have it, 3 simple and easy tricks that can be used anywhere at any time. These strategies work best when combined with regular practice and patience. Remember, every child develops at their own pace!