Expert Q&A

	By Mindy Hudon Speech and Language Pathologist

My toddler doesn't seem interested in sitting and reading books, just play, play and more play. How can I work on speech and language skills if he won't sit still for reading time?

Remember, your toddler is living in the "world revolves around ME" stage of development. What he sees and does is very important. Take advantage of this developmental stage to encourage language.

Model language by using "parallel talk." Parallel talking is when you talk about everything your child is doing while he is doing it. For example, while your child is playing with a doll, you could say, "You have a little doll. Oh, you are feeding the doll. I like the way you are rocking the doll." When you're walking down the street, talk about what he sees, hears or smells.

Another way to model language is by using "self-talk." This refers to talking about everything YOU (not your child) are doing, seeing, or hearing while it's happening. For example, take a walk down the street together and say, "I see a red car. The car is driving fast. Look, that birdie is flying in the sky." Self-talk is also great for describing what you're doing and how you're feeling. For instance, "I swung 'round the corner and dashed through the gate. I ran up the steps and I felt simply GREAT!"

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