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How to Teach Speech to Children

Children develop at different rates during their toddler and preschool years. One major milestone in a child's development is speech. Children learn through interaction and one-on-one conversation how to speak in syllables and sentences. When a child has difficulty with forming patterns of speech, additional help may be necessary. Although many public schools offer speech therapy, younger children may benefit further from parental involvement.

Instructions

    • 1

      Speak to your child about topics that interest him. Your child is more likely to open up and create long sentences by discussing issues that he feels are important. Allow him to take control of the conversation. Note any trouble such as sounds or pronunciation he may be having during the conversation.

    • 2

      Ask your child to repeat single words. As she watches the movement of your mouth and hears how the word should sound, she will be able to mimic the word and soon the articulation of that word will become second nature.

    • 3

      Encourage your child to ask for things he wants using few words. For example, if your child wants a glass of milk, encourage him to say "I want milk." Some children who suffer from delayed speech may simply point or grunt.

    • 4

      Make silly faces and sounds in a mirror with your child. This will teach him proper mouth movement and how to create the sounds of each letter. This also exercises his vocal chords.

    • 5

      Avoid punishing your child or being too hard on her when she does not get certain words or sounds correct. This will deter her from wanting to learn. Keep your lessons simple and fun so they hold her attention.

    • 6

      Sing songs and recite rhymes with your child. Rhymes and songs are easily memorized and will help your child put together groupings of words, improving articulation, according to Walden University.

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