The holidays are full of natural moments to support your child’s language skills, no flashcards required. From cozy routines to everyday traditions, simple interactions can turn into powerful learning opportunities when kids are engaged, relaxed, and having fun. Here are 5 easy, parent-friendly ways to encourage language development during the holiday season (without changing your plans or adding anything extra).
1. Look at decorations and talk about where things are! (look at the present UNDER the tree, look at the star ON the tree, look at the lights AROUND the window)
2. Cook/bake together! Baking targets many simple directions, verbs, and prepositions. (i.e. put in the bowl, stir the spoon, roll the dough)
3. Read holiday books together. Ask WH- questions or look for target speech sounds! (WHERE, WHAT, WHO, WHEN, WHY)
4.Use describing words to talk about Santa, a snowman, Christmas tree, decorations, etc. (Santa is wearing a red coat, the snowman feels cold)
5. Have fun talking about what you are doing or what you see. Modeling language is the best way for kids to learn!