Language development and choice

To support language development you can:

• Try to create opportunities for communication
• Respond to early communication – crying, laughing
• Use consistent language
• Consider how many key words a child may understand in a sentence
• Use body language and facial expressions 
• Give a child time to respond
• Remember the importance of play in the development of communication and make it a fun experience for both you and the child
• Play games that develop attention span
• Work on eye contact
• Encourage taking turns
• Involve other children.

Choice

Some children may not yet understand how to make a choice or what a choice is. Help them learn the consequences of making a choice. If you offer a child the choice of two drinks, give them the one they have chosen, even if you know that the other is their favourite. Always accept their first answer, even if their choice is indicated by a fleeting glance.