Summer break is the perfect time to refresh routines—and that includes how we support communication in early childhood at home. The good news? You don’t need flashcards, long practice sessions, or special materials to help your child grow. Some of the most powerful teaching strategies happen during everyday moments!
LANGUAGE MODELING
One of the simplest and most effective ways to support your child’s communication is something you are already doing: talking with them.
In speech therapy, we call this language modeling—when you show your child how language works without asking them to repeat it.
For example, instead of saying “Say ‘ball’,” you can say “Ball! You have the ball!”
This small shift removes the pressure for your child to perform and instead, helps your child to learn naturally.
Why “Modeling Language” Works in Child Development
- Your child hears correct words and phrases in context
• There’s no pressure to perform, which reduces frustration
• It supports both speaking and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) users
• It builds confidence over time
How to Model Language at Home
You don’t need to find extra time to support your child’s language development —just use what you’re already doing! For example:
- During play:
Child: “Car” → You: “Fast car!” or “Go car go!” - During meals:
You: “More apple?” or “Yummy apples!” - During routines:
You: “Wash hands” and “All done!”
Tips for Modeling Language at Home
- Keep phrases short and clear
- Follow your child’s interests
- Repeat words naturally
- Pause and give your child time to respond
- Incorporate American Sign Language (ASL) signs
Try This Summer Activity! Create an Indoor Sensory Garden
What you’ll need:
- Fake or paper flowers
- Small containers or cups
- Scoops or spoons
- Beans or Soil
- Watering can
- Optional scented items
What to say while building:
- “Put in” / “Take out”
- “Pink flower” / “Big flower”
- “I want flower”
- “Plant flower” / “Water Flower”
This is a great time to model language while your child explores, with no pressure, just play.
For Adults: Building Skills Through Daily Routines
If you’re supporting an older child or adult at home, everyday tasks can be powerful learning opportunities. Try a simple chore or routine like folding towels, wiping a table or learning a new recipe.
Encourage communication by:
- Asking: “What’s next?”
- Modeling: “First wipe, then dry”
- Prompting: “I need help”
These activities build independence while strengthening communication and thinking skills.
For Parents:
Remember, you are already your child’s most important teacher. Every time you talk, model behavior, and connect during daily routines, you’re helping their communication grow. Keep it simple, keep it natural, and celebrate the small moments—they add up in big ways.
We’re here to help. Visit wordplayaz.org to learn more about our home-based speech and language services.