Talking Without Words

Many parents bring their children to speech therapy with the simple request, “Please just make my child talk”. However, before a child starts effectively using words he must master non-verbal communication. Children from 0-18 months are very proficient non-verbal communicators. In speech and language treatment it is important to focus on solidifying these skills to ensure a strong foundation for words. When a child learns that his non-verbal actions impact the world around him, he will later learn that his words will do the same!  Non-verbal communication may include, but is not limited to: giving looks, facial expressions, whining, crying, gesturing etc…

• Ensure that your child is focused, his body is calm and he is comfortable. Your child cannot participate in acts of non-verbal communication if this is not achieved.
• Figure out what makes your child “tick”. If your child is most comfortable with soft noises, and slow gentle movements approach him in this manner. For instance, dim the lights, speak to him a sweet soothing voice, smile and show emotions on your face. If he your child gravitates toward loud noises, big facial expressions and tickle play, engage him in that manner.
• Play games that lend themselves to turn-taking, such as rolling a ball, sharing a toy, or peek-a-boo. Strive for as many turns as possible in these interactions by keeping your child “in the moment” with facial expressions, movements, noises and a tone of voice that capture his attention and create joy.
• Play dumb! Once your child is exchanging gestures and facial expressions with you in a back and forth manner, see what he does when you suddenly stop. Will he grab your hands to indicate he wants more peek-a-boo? Perhaps he’ll hand you the ball to continue your ball game.
• Assign meaning to your child’s actions. If he’s crying or whining, verbalize what you think he’s trying to communicate. “Hungry?”, “Mad?”, “More juice?”  If he hands you a ball verbalize, “Play ball!”