Things to Know or Do

• Repeat and extend what your child says (for example, child says “ball”; “yes, a big, red ball”).
• Model language by using describing your actions or a child’s actions (for example, “I am setting the table for lunch”; “you are using blocks to build a house”.
• Read with your child, tell stories, recite nursery rhymes and sing fingerplays.
• Ask your child simple questions about the book.
• Act out stories through dramatic play, draw simple pictures, or sequence pictures to retell a story.

Children Read Alouds

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin, Jr.

A big happy frog, a plump purple cat, a handsome blue horse, and a soft yellow duck--all parade across the pages of this delightful book.

The Itsy Bitsy Spider by Iza Trapani

The itsy-bitsy spider encounters a fan, a mouse, a cat, and a rocking chair as she makes her way to the top of a tree to spin her web.

Wheels on the Bus by Raffi

An exciting sing-along board book features a fun-filled rhythmic text and charming full-color illustrations.

Five Little Monkeys Sitting in a Tree by Eileen Christelow

While their mother takes a nap, five mischievous monkeys discover that it is unwise to tease Mr. Crocodile.

Links to Visit

• Get Ready to Read: Understanding Language Development in Preschoolers
• Zero to Three: How to Support Your Child's Communication Skills
• Scholastic: Language and Literacy Development in 3-5 Year Olds

Points to Research

• Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute: Early Childhood Educators Hold the Key to Children's Communication Skills
• More Than Baby Talk: 10 Ways to Promote the Language and Communication Skills of Infants and Toddlers

Video to View

Avance, Inc: Engaging Children in Meaningful Conversations