Using book to increase language skills

Tips for using books to increase

Speech and language skills of preschooler and school aged children

USing books to help with children's speech and langauge skills is a great and easy way to target their goals.

What should your child be able to do? Check out the talk box for milestones of children!

How to target Speech and languagethru books!

• Copy- copy children’s actions and words- this lets them know that you are interested in what they say and what they do. Encourage discussion, ask open ended questions.

• Model- use correct grammar and pronunciation of words- all the time. If someone is using incorrect grammar or incorrect pronunciation of sounds- don’t tell them they are “wrong” instead just provide them with a model of the sentence/word said correctly. For example “I runned there” you can say “ohh you ran there.” Or “I wike rabbits” you can say “you like rabbits.”

• Add- when you are talking about things with the children- describe them in as much detail as you can. Name the parts, where it lives, what it does, the group it belongs to, what we do with it, what it looks like, etc.

·       By reading slowly to the class, with emphasis on certain words, children are able to listen more intently and follow the story. Children will also gain an understanding of how to pronounce words and will be more attentive. 

    

    Make sure that everyone can see your mouth when you speak.

·       When you read a book – don’t just read it. Encourage open discussions and talk about the pictures if the text is too long for their attention span.

·       Don’t be afraid to read a book at least 4-5 times. They won’t get bored and the more you read it, the more learning they will get out of it! Search the net for coloring pages and other ideas to turn books into activities. For more information check this out!

Working with children

•     It is a good idea to give children positive statements about their work, which will encourage them to think more positively about themselves. Instead of saying “don’t ___” say “I really like it when you are trying”.

•   Treat the children with respect and value their opinions. Teach them to have a “voice.” Encourage them to speak and don’t interrupt. 

• Teach taking turns and providing choices whenever possible.

• Speak to children at their level- actually get down and sit on the floor or squat when you are speaking with them. It’s important that they see your mouth.

• Make books fun!

Cheers,
Mindy