A less common meaning would be as in an 'ear of corn'. Figures of speech are important because they are very common in everyday speech and yet quite confusing to those who are trying to learn a language. Children need to develop some understanding of the sound system of words. Parents may play rhyming games. Reading books with word play, like Dr. Seuss, provide valuable experience.
Parents can point out similarities in the sounds of words.
Parents can play blending games and analysis games. For older children, this can be done with sounds. For older children, parents can show how words change with small additions. Parents may emphasize word meaning and sound structure with older children by engaging in casual word play. Children need to develop an understanding of the concept of 'word' and meanings in different situations.