For the French version, click here.
By the time they get to preschool, most children know a lot of everyday words and can make simple sentences with 3 or 4 words. If they cannot yet pronounce all the sounds and simplify certain words, adults can understand what they are saying and children are very keen to talk to them.
However, they still have a lot to learn, and the progress each child will make during their preschool years is important. It will increase from a vocabulary of about 300 words to an average of more than 2,500. He will be able to correctly articulate complicated words, and will master, orally, almost all the complexity of the English language.
School is a privileged place for language learning, but it only complements the learning that takes place at home, in the family. It is therefore important that the child encounters many opportunities to develop his or her language with his or her parents and family.
In concrete terms, how can you promote the development of your child's language?
1. Listen to your child.
From an early age, value what he says, seek to understand his words and thoughts, even when his language is still imprecise. It is by speaking that he will learn to speak, and he needs to know that you are attentive to him in order to want to share with you.
2. Answer his/her questions.
Children are naturally curious and ask an infinite number of questions every day. The "why" starts at 2-3 years old, followed by the "how" at 4-5 years old. What a wonderful opportunity to develop not only your knowledge and understanding of the world, but also your vocabulary.
3. Ask him/her questions.
Take the time, in turn, to ask your child questions. About what your child sees, thinks, does. Children rarely like questions that are too open-ended or oriented towards the past, such as "What did you do today at school?", but are happy to talk to you about a game or a photo album.
4. Read stories every day.
Visit your local library or bookshop regularly to stock up on new and exciting books for your child, and read to them every day!
Paula Buswell