Five ways to grow words during everyday routines

Why routines work

Routines repeat the same words in the same order, every day. That repetition is exactly what young children need to understand a word and then try it.

Five ideas

1. Bath time: name body parts as you wash them, then pause before the last one.

2. Meals: offer two choices and wait for a word, a sign or a point.

3. Getting dressed: talk through each step, “Sock on. Other sock.”

4. In the car: sing the same short song and leave out the last word.

5. Bedtime: read the same book often and let your child finish familiar lines.

Keep it light

If your child is not interested, try again later. Short, happy moments add up.

This article is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you are worried, ask a professional.