When a toddler begins to verbally communicate it is always an exciting time for parents, sometimes so exciting they forget that learning to talk does not happen overnight and become frustrated or worried when their child is not chatting it up at the dinner table when they expect them to. It is important to remember that every child develops at his/her own rate and some children may talk long before or long after others. There are however steps a parent can take to help a toddler learn to talk faster and have a wider vocabulary.

First from the moment your baby is born, you should talk, sing, and read to him or her. Children learn language and words from hearing them. The more you talk the more they’ll learn, singing and books may also offer words you may not use in your everyday vocabulary to help widen your child’s word bank. This is also a good time to note to watch what you say during the toddler phase. Toddlers may learn words you do not want them to if your not careful. Toddlerhood is sometimes called the parrot stage for this reason.

Once your toddler does begin to communicate in anyway make sure you engage them in conversation as well as talk to them. Ask your toddler questions, and give them time to respond and try to communicate. In addition, even if you know what your toddler wants try to get them to say it in whatever way they can. Always praise effort but watch for frustration; toddlers are also very prone to tantrums.

You can also expand on words your toddler already knows. For example if your toddler already says “drink”, when he or she says “drink” you could say “please” or “mommy/daddy”. You may be surprised how quickly your toddler begins to string words together at your prompting. It is also important during this stage to name everything for your child. You may feel stupid walking around the house going “clock”, “door”, “wall” etc. but if your toddler does not know what things are he or she can’t communicate things about those things. Try to match words you say with objects or actions so the meanings of the words are very clear.

Lastly be patient and remember that language is a learning process. Always give your toddler time to speak, and plenty of opportunities to talk. If you do suspect a delay in your child’s language skills consult your pediatrician.