When your child imitates your word, they won’t say it with precise articulation. It will sound like “baby talk.” If they use the same sounds consistently and you know what they mean, that counts as a word.

Your interest and enthusiasm is the best way to reinforce your child’s imitation. Using a single word in response gives them a model of another thing they could say about the topic.

Today’s activity: Respond enthusiastically in a way that keeps the conversation going, Keep it fun and meaningful. Repeat what they said or use a new word that continues the topic.

Send your questions to [email protected].

Visit www.TheInteractionCoach.com to see the directory of speech-language pathologists licensed in your area. If you can’t find one in the directory, contact me at [email protected] and I’ll track down someone for you.

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