There’s a big difference between language and speech. Speech is only the way we use our mouth to say words. Language is how we express many different meanings for many different social reasons. Language includes words and the grammar that makes sentences. Language is how we understand the world and express our ideas and feelings. They can express these ideas using gestures, speech or pointing to a picture or symbol.

By the end of this Level, your child should express 16 meanings with 16 gestures. Your child needs to learn the power of communication and how they can use it to get the result they want. When you consistently respond to their meaning, you are reinforcing their use of language. Reinforcement strengthens the skill, as they are more likely to use it in the future.

Today’s activity: When your child uses a gesture or sound in a consistent way, always respond to the meaning you think they intend. Model gestures or signs frequently to give lots of examples of what they mean and when to use them.

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