Let’s talk about choosing words for vocabulary (or speech activities for toddlers) when it comes to increasing language and communication with toddlers.
Simple Word Structure
I recently acquired 2 new patients and we have started the building word structure process from the beginning. I pulled out these phonology cards and we started at the basic level of word production. VC and CV words. (here’s a quick video about them) For littles that are experiencing difficulty putting final consonants on the ends of words- this type of word structure is where I begin. We typically pair them with an activity- this not only keeps their attention but also increases the opportunity for choosing words for vocabulary.
Important note: I do not require them to imitate me during these activities. Actually, I rarely ask them to imitate me. We have to remember to keep communication fun! Not requiring them to imitate lowers the expectations and keeps things fun! As they develop, they will begin to imitate on their own sporadically throughout the day.
Phonology Cards
Do you need these cards to be effective in therapy? Absolutely not! You can target CV and VC words by just talking along and making up phoneme combinations during playtime or your activity. I’m not always good at coming up words on the fly so these are really just helpful reminders for me and the additional coloring pages give me something to provide parents! The important thing to keep in mind when choosing words for vocabulary is this: you are simply wanting to expose them to a variety of language and communication intents and opportunities.
As for my little friends I’ve been seeing quite a while, we are continuing to work on adding those final consonants in words (in even in some phrases!). These also include those tricky words with 2-3 syllable words. To do that, I continue to use my cards along with an interactive activity. Sometimes I use Learning Resources Surprise Boxes, a Poke-A-Dot book, their favorite toys, or even a cardboard box! Just like I do with the little’s just beginning therapy, I remind parents that choosing words for vocabulary is important, but exposing toddlers to a variety of communication opportunities by verbalizing their day-to-day activities is also great too! Language exposure plays an important role when it comes increasing a little’s developing skills.
I’ve really enjoyed these matching cards and matching games to use with my toddlers. It keeps them engaged, especially when paired with an activity they enjoy! If you’re interested in them too- you can find the entire bundle here!
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