Back and forth conversation is the simplest way to encourage your child to communicate with you.
Before a child can speak fluently in sentences, it can be easy to fall into the trap of asking questions where the only answers are ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
To begin, try asking your child choice questions, that encourage very young children to communicate, whether through pointing at something or attempting to say new words they are learning.
On the other hand, asking too many questions can be overwhelming for children. We recommend this ‘handy’ approach: for every question you ask during play, try to make four comments about what you or your child are doing.
These could be words of encouragement, ideas for play, or responses to their questions, and all help to create a free flowing conversation that allows to the child to feel comfortable and safe.
