Routines: A remarkable way to learn language

Everyone can assist in small ways. Caregivers can talk during a child’s personal routines. Daycare staff might chat while playing with children. Friends may share short games. Grandparents an sing a favorite song. Siblings might do simple chores together.

Consider when you can:

1. Outline some upcoming routines at the  start of the day and what will happen.
   • The conversation could be about the schedule.
   • The preschooler might help gather items for going out or discuss who he will see later.
2. Point out different household sounds when they occur during routines.
   • Conversations can be about machine noises or people sounds.
   • The preschooler might help listen for the dryer buzz or the baby crying.
3. Create reasons for routine interactions between your child and others.
   • Conversations can start with the exchange of greetings.
   • The preschooler might answer a short question or follow a simple request.
4. Read books with your child routinely, discuss the story and talk about the pictures.
   • The conversation can be about the pictures or predicting the story.
   • The preschooler can choose books, turn pages or re-tell the story.
5. Describe preparations during mealtime and what you are cooking.
   • The conversation could be about a recipe or how it tastes.
   • The preschooler might help stir or talk about who will eat the meal.
6. Follow a regular nighttime ritual for reviewing the day and getting ready to sleep.
   • The conversation could be about fun you had that day.
   • The preschooler might join in familiar song or help put toys away.

As your child’s communication increases, his participation in conversations will grow. Ask relatives to find a routine to share with your preschooler. Offer examples of conversations to family members so they understand how to help. Routines are a remarkable way to encourage language.