Boosting Your Child’s Speech and Language Skills Over the Summer
Summer is the perfect time to relax and have fun, but it also provides a fantastic opportunity to help your child enhance their speech and language skills. With schools out, parents can use the extra time to engage in activities that are both enjoyable and educational.
Here are some creative ideas to keep your child’s speech and language development on track during the sunny months.
Speech Sound Practice
Scavenger Hunts
Create a scavenger hunt that focuses on finding objects starting with specific sounds. For example, if you’re working on the “s” sound, put items like “sock,” “spoon,” and “stone” on the list. This not only makes sound practice fun, but also keeps your child active and engaged. Be sure to ask your therapist what your child’s target words and sounds are. Scavenger hunts are also great for practicing reading and following directions.
Reading Aloud Together
Choose books that highlight the speech sounds your child is practicing. Reading aloud allows children to hear how these sounds are used in context. Encourage them to repeat words or phrases after you, focusing on enunciation and clarity.
Sound Art Projects
Get creative with art! Have your child draw pictures of things that start with their target sound. Have them explain their artwork, practicing the pronunciation of each word. This visual and verbal combination reinforces their learning.
Vocabulary Practice
Word of the Day
Introduce a “Word of the Day” each morning. Discuss its meaning, use it in sentences, and encourage your child to find opportunities to use the new word throughout the day. This activity expands their vocabulary in a fun and practical way.
Nature Walks
Take advantage of the summer weather by going on nature walks. Use these excursions to teach new vocabulary related to plants, animals, and outdoor activities. Encourage your child to describe what they see, hear, and feel using descriptive language.
Themed Playdates
Organize playdates with themes such as “pirate adventure” or “space exploration". Provide props and encourage the children to use related vocabulary during their imaginative play. This peer interaction helps solidify new words in a social setting.
Formulating Ideas
Storytelling Sessions
Create a storytelling corner at home. Use pictures, story prompts, or objects to inspire your child to create their own stories. Ask open-ended questions to encourage them to think critically and to expand their narratives.
Daily Journals
Encourage your child to keep a daily journal. They can write or draw about their day, focusing on expressing their thoughts and feelings. Review their journal together to discuss their entries and help them refine their ideas.
Role-Playing Games
Engage in role-playing games where your child can take on different characters and scenarios. This helps them practice formulating sentences, expressing emotions, and interacting in various social situations.
By incorporating these activities into your daily routine, you can create a playful learning environment that helps your child grow and develop their communication abilities. Happy Summer!
