What is receptive language? Although it means our understanding of language, it is not commonly understood among parents/caregivers. Most of the time the focus is on expressive language, which is how we use language. One of the top questions on the questionnaires we as parents/caregivers fill out during regular pediatrician visits is “How many words is your child saying?”. However, almost more importantly, we should know what our child is understanding! We can attach labels to everything our children see or experience in their environment very early on! From the time they are tiny, we are talking to them; during feedings, diaper changes, and play. This is how they begin to learn that everything has a name! As they begin to sit supported or independently, you can help them learn through all of their senses, then helping them to touch or eventually point to objects/pictures as you name them. Then they begin to walk and you can begin to give simple directions, as well as, make sure they respond to their names. For example, “Joey, get your cup.”. You will also most likely need to point at first to show them where it is or walk with them to show them to pick it up. As you praise them for following through, they will begin to learn names of objects they use or need on a regular basis, as well as, action words. Soon, they will begin to respond to “Where is Daddy?” by waddling over, or remembering where they put their favorite toy as you wonder out loud, “Where did that ball go?”, finding it for you! You can eventually begin to include them in some simple household chores, such as telling them to take out all the socks in the laundry basket for you😊. Children learn best from their parents/caregivers through every day routines/activities. Start early talking to them and they will show you early on how much they take in!
