20 evidence-based activities to support early speech and language at home
Narrate what your child is doing: "You're stacking the blocks. The red block is on top!"
Narrate what YOU are doing while your child watches: "I'm washing the dishes. The water is warm."
When your child says "dog run," expand it: "Yes! The big dog is running fast!"
Pretend to forget something they need — wait for them to request it. Give a cracker without the cup at snack time.
Offer two choices to encourage words: "Do you want the apple or the banana?"
After asking a question, wait 5–10 seconds with an expectant look. Give your child time to respond.
Point to pictures and name them. Then ask "What's that?" and wait.
Before turning the page: "What do you think will happen next?"
After reading, ask your child to tell you what happened in the story.
Add animal sounds, vehicle sounds, and action sounds while reading together.
Play house, restaurant, or doctor. Use real words for objects and actions.
Sort toys by color, size, or type. Name each category: "These are all animals."
Practice following directions: "Simon says touch your nose and clap your hands."
"I spy something that starts with /b/…" — great for phonological awareness.
Sit back-to-back; each person has the same set of toys. Give directions to match arrangements.
Nursery rhymes and songs build vocabulary, rhythm, and phonological awareness.
Practice words that differ by one sound: "pan / ban," "cat / hat." Make it a game.
Practice target sounds in front of a mirror together. Make it silly and fun.
Pick one target word each day. Use it in 5 different sentences throughout the day.
Always praise the attempt: "I love how hard you tried!" Avoid correcting — model the correct form instead.