It’s always exciting when a toddler learns a new word. Your child will learn new words in day care, but you also need to provide them with activities to learn at home. Here’s more insight on what to do to help your young one expand their language.

How to Help Your Toddler Learn New Words

1. Use Proper Words

Your child will probably start by using truncated words, like “dada” and “mama.” You shouldn’t correct them too much, as they’re still learning, and both you and the day care employees will know what they mean. However, don’t reinforce the mispronunciation by mimicking them. When they say, “mama,” say something like, “yes, your mommy’s right here.” Hearing the real word will help them figure out the right way to say it.

2. Go on Outings

There are a lot of new words your toddler can learn outside of the home. A simple walk through the park can allow you to point to new objects and use their names. For instance, you can count the number of trees or sticks on the ground around you.

Another idea is visiting a children’s museum or zoo where they can experience some interactive learning. These places have exhibits made for young children that will teach them to learn in a unique, fun way.

3. Piggyback Words

When your child says “cat,” follow it up with “big cat.” Adding on words like this is an easy way for your child to expand their vocabulary. Since they already know one of the words, it makes the context easier to understand.

4. Read

Your toddler likely gets read to a lot during day care, but you should add in some reading time at home too. Relate the book to the child’s life and point out colors. If your child has a favorite book they always want to read, that’s okay. Repetition is how toddlers learn.

5. Recap Your Day

When it’s time for bed, take the opportunity to recap your child’s day with them. Talk about everything from waking up to day care to dinner. This will help cement words they heard that day into their permanent vocabulary.

Merry Manor School of Childhood is a day care center located in Lincoln, NE. Their staff has over 70 years of experience caring for children, and all of the kids in the program get the personalized attention and support they deserve. They provide day care and after-school programs for children from six weeks to 13 years old. Visit their website to meet their staff or call (402) 466-2215 for more information on their facility.