Toys for Building Language: Batteries Not Required
Toys are not just objects of play; they are powerful tools that hold the key to unlocking a world of possibilities, especially when it comes to speech and language development in children.
You may have recently been at a toy store or Target and when you went into the toy aisle, you were bombarded with lights, sounds, colors, buttons, music and oh so many screens! When you purchase these types of toys, the toys are doing all the work! This means, your child is not really using or building on any of their skills. Children learn by doing, and with these toys, often instead of them doing (and learning), the toy is doing!
There are two things I almost always tell parents: keep it simple and less is more. The simpler the toy, the more skills you can work on. However, it is always important to go with your child’s interests, so if your child likes the loud toys, don’t shy away from getting them, but always try to mix in some more simple toys into your child’s toy collection to support the development of early language and play skills. Also, you don’t need a closet full of toys to have fun, you can use one toy to target so many things, all while connecting with your kiddo, keeping their attention and having tons of fun!
In this blog, we delve into the incredible journey toys and using a single toy to encourage and enhance speech and language skills in young ones.
The Magic of Interactive Play
At the heart of speech and language development lies the foundation of interactive play. A simple yet versatile toy, such as building blocks, cars, ball drops. shape sorters and even books, can work wonders in engaging children in meaningful interactions. Through play, children learn to communicate, express themselves, and comprehend language in a natural, enjoyable way.
Choosing the Right Toy
When selecting a toy to aid speech and language development, consider its versatility and adaptability. A toy like a set of animal figurines or a dollhouse not only sparks imagination but also offers endless opportunities for vocabulary expansion, storytelling, and social interaction – all essential components of language growth.
LEGOS & BLOCKS
An oldie but goodie! Because they can be used in so many different ways, Legos are one of the best toys for development. Children can play independently or interact with others. Great for vocabulary, language skills, articulation, and building fine motor and spatial awareness skills.
MR. POTATO HEAD
This toy provides so many benefits, including encouraging language development (naming body parts and labeling colors) fine and gross motor skills (grasping), visual scanning (looking for a part), naming body parts, spatial awareness, matching objects, and labeling colors, just to name a few! At Valued Voices, we have a variety of sizes of Potato Heads, which provides great opportunities during peer play too!
BOOKS
Reading at an early age is so important for your little one. Children can build their literacy skills, which will directly correlate to language development and later success. Wordless picture books, simple books with short phrases and sentences, and books with repetitions are my favorite. You can find out more about the importance of reading with your kiddos here.
CAUSE-EFFECT TOYS
Playful Language Learning Activities
Here are some fun and creative ways to harness the power of a single toy for speech and language enrichment:
1. Labeling and Describing:
Prompt children to label and describe different parts of the toy or describe its features, building vocabulary and language comprehension.
2. Pretend Play & Storytelling Sessions:
Encourage children to narrate stories using the toy characters or props, fostering creativity and narrative skills.
3. Role-Playing Scenarios:
Engage in role-playing activities with the toy to stimulate conversation, practice social skills, and enhance communication abilities.
The Impact Beyond Words
Speech and language development go beyond words – they form the cornerstone of cognitive, social, and emotional growth. By incorporating a thoughtfully chosen toy into a child’s play routine, you’re not just fostering language skills; you’re nurturing their overall development and setting a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
The power of a single toy in encouraging speech and language development is immeasurable. We don’t need always need more; we just need the right way to unlock your child’s strengths! Through toys, children can embark on a journey of self-expression, communication, and connection. So, grab that toy, ignite the magic of play, and watch as language blossoms in the hands of little ones.
Remember, in the world of toys, every play moment is a language moment waiting to happen. Celebrate achievements, no matter how small, to boost confidence and motivation in your child’s journey of self-expression!
SHOLEH SHAHINFAR
M.A. CCC-SLP, RYT
Sholeh Shahinfar is the Founder of Valued Voices, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, Sholeh embraces a vegan lifestyle, loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
