Encouraging Speech & Language at Home: 5 Therapist-Approved Tips

Supporting your child’s speech and language development doesn’t have to be complicated — and it certainly doesn’t require fancy flashcards or apps! At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, our speech pathologists love sharing easy, everyday ways parents can help build their child’s communication skills at home.

Here are five therapist-approved tips to get you started:

1. Talk, Talk, Talk!

Narrate your day as you go: “We’re putting on your red shoes,” or “I’m pouring the milk into the cup.” Children learn language by hearing it over and over in meaningful ways.

Try this: Use short, clear sentences and match your words to what your child is looking at or doing.

2. Read Together Every Day

Reading is one of the most powerful ways to support speech and language. Point to pictures, name objects, and pause so your child can fill in words or actions.

Try this: Choose interactive books with flaps, textures, or repetitive lines. Let your child lead the way!

3. Model, Don’t Correct

Instead of correcting mistakes, model the correct version. For example, if your child says “doggy run,” you can respond with “Yes, the doggy is running!”

Why it works: This encourages learning without creating pressure or self-doubt.

4. Follow Their Lead in Play

Get on your child’s level and play with what they’re interested in — whether it’s cars, dolls, or dinosaurs. Add new words related to their play, like “fast,” “crash,” or “hide.”

Try this: Use pretend play to introduce action words, emotions, and problem-solving language.

5. Sing and Use Routines

Songs and daily routines help children predict language patterns and build vocabulary. Think about songs with actions, like “If You’re Happy and You Know It” or routines like bedtime or bath time.

Try this: Repeat the same phrases during daily routines (“Time to brush your teeth,” “Let’s wash your hands”) to reinforce language.

Need More Personalised Support?

Every child develops at their own pace, but if you have concerns about your child’s communication skills, our speech pathologists can help. Contact us for an assessment or tailored strategies to support your child’s speech and language.