Talking Toddlers

This episode continues from last week, discussing the 10 Must-Haves to Get to First Words. Children don't just wake up on their first birthday and start talking ... there is A LOT of serious work, growth, and development that can sometimes get lost in the shuffle between feedings, diapers, sleeping and just keeping your little one safe!

Last episode we covered the first 5, so if you haven't listened to last week, go back for #1 - 5. It's important you get the whole early developmental process - just like when building a house, we NEED A STRONG FOUNDATION.

Tune in to learn:

#6.   PLAYS APPROPRIATELY WITH A VARIETY OF TOYS - pretend play is closely related to speech & language development. It demonstrates your child is beginning to understand how the world works and how s/he can engage. 

#7.   RECEPTIVE LANGUAGE - understanding simple, concrete statements is critical to staying on-track. This is often THE MOST OVERLOOKED red flag. 

#8.   USE HIS / HER VOICE - intentional & purposeful vocalization. Babies need to be noisy! These are the important prelinguistic "workouts" - grunts, squeals, whines, and babbling.

#9.  GESTURES - your child is truly using gestures on his own, with intent and purpose: waving, pointing, blows kiss, shakes head no, pats or gives you objects.

CLICK HERE for the article I mentioned in the episode, by FIRST WORDS* Project. 

*  This article does highlight "Earlier is Better" - but please recognize that if a child continues to struggle beyond his 3rd birthday - do NOT limit your expectations. Those first three years are using 'mother nature' to the fullest - kids are typically little sponges, but growth & development is LIFE LONG.  Keep asking questions and seeking guidance. 

#10.   IMITATION of ACTIONS - Your child does this routinely! This would include gestures, sounds, simple words and actions.  And s/he is beginning to initiate interactions much more easily with others to get needs met AND to play with you!

Happy listening!

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In this episode, I introduce the first 5 precursors a baby must have to be Developmentally Ready to Talk  for you to consider. This modern world can be confusing, and I don't want you to leave it to chance or to feel uncertain. Some parents may not be aware how much they can do with their babies to build a strong language foundation and help establish a true connection.  Growth and development are not passive. They need YOU to be their guide.

If you're feeling a bit lost, I provide specifics on how to prioritize and what to look for - even during every day activities, such as bathing or eating. Parents can entice, connect, and strengthen early speech skills, naturally.  You've got this!

Next week's episode will cover #6-10 

@erin.hyer
www.HyerLearning.com

Talking Toddler’s host, Erin Hyer, shares why she is starting her podcast now… April 2022.

If you're a new mom of a young toddler or preschooler and feeling a bit overwhelmed, uncertain, or perhaps looking for confirmation on how well your beautiful toddler is really doing - maybe questioning the “wait and see” recommendation by your pediatrician, or feeling a bit guilty for sheltering him during these unprecedented times, Erin wants you to STOP. 

There is no time to look back and no time to “wait and see.” Erin knows you're looking for ways to be proactive and parent with courage - all you need is an experience guide. 

Because of her 35 years of clinical practice - on the floor, working with a variety of families, consulting with preschools, training teachers and new graduate students, diving deep into the science, asking questions - she refuses to get sucked into the overwhelming acceptance of “new normals” - skyrocketing numbers of late talkers, non-verbal preschoolers, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, poor sleep, picky eating, lack of self-regulation, and the list goes on.

Erin’s experience has given her opportunities to be part of those who continually question this “fixed” mindset - those who’s very nature is to “think outside the box,” to peel back the layers, ask WHY, and find solutions.

If you’re a new mom who's eager to truly shape your toddler’s growth, to be proactive, refuse to leave it “to chance,” or unwilling to “wait & see” - you’ll love following Talking Toddlers - as Erin’s mission is to reduce the clutter, communicate clearly, and build a community of like-minded courageous mothers. Let’s get started.

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Disclaimer:

This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your pediatrician or a qualified health provider with questions about your child’s development or health. The views shared are based on Erin Hyer’s professional experience and are intended to support informed parenting, not to replace individual consultation or care. Every child and family is unique — please use your discretion and consult trusted professionals when making decisions for your child.

www.HyerLearning.com
@erin.hyer