Whether you have a set schedule/routine for your day or you are better operating on a moment-by- moment basis, there are “routines” that occur daily. Based on years of research, routines-based interventions are now considered an evidence-based practice. Why are routines the best way to “teach” children? No one even realizes what is actually happening(which can be a good thing)! It can become an easy way to incorporate practice naturally into the day. There is no “special time” to set aside to practice certain skills/strategies in your already busy day. There is no planning or special preparation. Your children will be learning and they will only be thinking about engaging with parents/caregivers, building their participation(and autonomy) in daily activities.
What routines happen during everyday life with your children? The big routines are of course: eating, playing, and sleeping. What can we teach children during these routines? For the purpose of this article, I will focus on speech and language, but keep in mind, ALL developmental skills can be learned during everyday routines.
During meals, vocabulary can be expanded as children learn what they are eating and drinking, as well as, the objects needed to participate in meals. You can easily present opportunities to make choices and requests by giving smaller portions at a time so your child asks for more. During play, there are a ton of action words to learn, names of toys, and how to play with others using words. Again, there are many opportunities to incorporate making choices and requests. What can a child learn while sleeping? Well, they need rest to rejuvenate their ability to soak up all the things happening around them. There is much to learn surrounding the process of going to sleep! What pajamas to wear, did we brush teeth, we have to tell everyone “Night-night”! You can find more ideas to build speech and language skills throughout this site. Additional routines include, but are not limited to: bath time, dressing, looking at books, riding in the car, etc. Language can be learned all day long!
Teaching language skills during your everyday activities will make it easier to practice certain skills. Always speak to your pediatrician with any concerns regarding your child’s development. Send me a message with any specific questions!
