If you have a child that does not imitate words yet.. you are not alone! SO- I’m going to share some of my favorite tips. I’ve found that many of the children I work with actually start to imitate when they are in a low pressure environment.
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A low pressure environment can be created by dropping expectations, using a fun lighthearted interaction, and avoiding direct requests to say a word. Here’s how you can replicate this at home:
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1️⃣ Use PLAY to facilitate imitation skills. Using play incorporates your child’s interests and allows them to take the lead in the activity. Play automatically feels less like “drill” because the point of play is to enjoy and connect with the world!
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2️⃣ Instead of asking your child to say words, simply make SOUND EFFECTS effects during an activity. It could be vehicle sounds, animal sounds, or silly sounds. You might feel a little awkward doing this but it will help your child to relax and feel engaged in the interaction. So HAM IT UP as much as you feel is still “you.”
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3️⃣ TAKE TALKING TURNS even if your child doesn’t actually say a word. A gesture, sound, or even eye contact could count. Just meet them where they are and make sure you aren’t overwhelming them with how much you are saying.
*I like to try to stick to a 1:1 ratio if possible.. where I make a sound effect/comment and WAIT (sometimes a long time) for them to respond. You are teaching them that you can be patient with them and their participation is valued!
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Have you tried these strategies?
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A low pressure environment can be created by dropping expectations, using a fun lighthearted interaction, and avoiding direct requests to say a word. Here’s how you can replicate this at home:
.
1️⃣ Use PLAY to facilitate imitation skills. Using play incorporates your child’s interests and allows them to take the lead in the activity. Play automatically feels less like “drill” because the point of play is to enjoy and connect with the world!
.
2️⃣ Instead of asking your child to say words, simply make SOUND EFFECTS effects during an activity. It could be vehicle sounds, animal sounds, or silly sounds. You might feel a little awkward doing this but it will help your child to relax and feel engaged in the interaction. So HAM IT UP as much as you feel is still “you.”
.
3️⃣ TAKE TALKING TURNS even if your child doesn’t actually say a word. A gesture, sound, or even eye contact could count. Just meet them where they are and make sure you aren’t overwhelming them with how much you are saying.
*I like to try to stick to a 1:1 ratio if possible.. where I make a sound effect/comment and WAIT (sometimes a long time) for them to respond. You are teaching them that you can be patient with them and their participation is valued!
.
Have you tried these strategies?
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