6 Weeks: Responsive Communication

At six weeks, the focus is on responsive communication with infants. Parents and carers are encouraged to look for alert periods when the baby is most receptive to communication. Responding enthusiastically to the baby's attempts at communication, such as eye contact, smiles, or reaching out, is crucial. When the baby points or waves, adults should talk about the objects of interest and praise the baby's efforts.

Example: If a baby makes eye contact, respond with a warm smile and encouraging words to reinforce this early communication attempt.

Highlight: Responsiveness and enthusiasm in adult-child interactions are key to promoting early communication skills.

15 Months & 18 Months: Contextual Language and Book Sharing

Between 15 and 18 months, the strategies focus on contextual language use and introducing literacy. Talking in the 'here and now' about what the toddler is doing helps them connect language to their immediate experiences. Sharing books and following the toddler's interest promotes early literacy skills and vocabulary development. Giving one simple instruction at a time helps the child process language and follow directions. Allowing time for the toddler to respond to questions or instructions encourages language production and comprehension.

Example: While reading a picture book, point to images that catch the toddler's attention and name them, allowing time for the child to repeat or respond.

Highlight: Introducing books and following the child's interests in conversation significantly enhances language and literacy development.

24 Months: Advanced Language Modeling and Interaction

By two years old, language promotion strategies become more sophisticated. Adults should model simple sentences to demonstrate proper language structure. Avoiding asking too many questions allows the child more opportunities to initiate communication. Making eye contact and getting down to the child's height creates a supportive environment for communication. Listening carefully to what children are trying to say, even when speech is unclear, encourages their efforts. Ensuring you have their attention before talking, even if it means waiting for them to finish what they are doing, promotes active listening and engagement.

Definition: Language modeling - The practice of providing clear examples of language use in context, helping children understand how to construct sentences and use words appropriately.

Highlight: Patient, attentive listening and appropriate language modeling are crucial for supporting the rapid language development occurring at this age.

Promoting Language Development: 0-2 Years

This page introduces the topic of promoting language development in children aged 0-2 years. It highlights the crucial role that parents, carers, practitioners, and other professionals play in supporting early language acquisition. The focus is on effective language interaction with babies and toddlers during this critical period of development.

Highlight: The title emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach involving various caregivers and professionals in fostering language skills from birth to age two.