Others still use gestures and sounds to tell their families what they want and need. Talk and read with your toddler, name the things the toddler points to, and tell the toddler the words he or she can use to make requests. Most toddlers understand more words than they can say. You got the brush. Now you can brush your hair.
Toddlers use words to have fun and to learn.
Play make-believe with your toddler. You can pretend to talk on the phone, feed a doll or stuffed animal, or go shopping. Yes, Todd's here. Okay, I'll give him the phone. Offer props such as a doctor's kit to help your toddler talk about her fears.