Parents and teachers play an important role in helping children learn to communicate with others and, eventually, to read and write. By using a special form of language, you can help your baby learn that there is a sense of mutual trust, that taking conversational turns is important and that by paying attention to the other person, they can respond to what's being said. When talking to your infant, use a very high pitch and vary the range of pitch at times. It's also important to speak slowly, distinctly, and repeat words and phrases. Don't underestimate your baby's comprehension.
Children understand a lot of what's said long before they can reply in words.
Conversing with Children The most vital thing about language development is the value of conducting a true conversation with your children. This means listening with sincere interest, responding in a way that will enhance and continue conversation, and allowing your children time to formulate their ideas and answers. Waiting for replies is one of the most important things you can do to encourage language growth. Look for opportunities to give your children something real to talk about. A child's attention can wander when they are expected to talk about something abstract or something they've never experienced in real life.