Adults let toddlers initiate language, and wait for a response, even from children whose language is limited. Adults label or name objects, describe events, and reflect feelings to help children learn new words.
Adults are supportive of toddlers as they acquire skills.
Adults watch to see what the child is trying to do and provide the necessary support to help the child accomplish the task, allowing children to do what they are capable of doing and assisting with tasks that are frustrating. Adults respond quickly to toddlers' cries or calls for help, recognizing that toddlers have limited language with which to communicate their needs. Adults respect children's developing preferences for familiar objects and provide limited options from which children may choose what they prefer to eat or wear. Children's preferences are seen as a healthy indication of a developing self-concept. Adults respect toddlers' desire to carry favored objects around with them, to move objects like household items from one place to another, and to roam around or sit and parallel play with toys and objects.