We spend a lot of time with our children, but how can we maximize the time that we have to ensure that the interactions we have are meaningful? Research shows that when parents have quality interactions with their children, this can promote language development. So, what is a quality interaction? It is an interaction where both of you are contributing in a back and fourth manner, enjoying being together and learning from each other. This may be with conversations with older children or with exchanging sounds/gestures with younger children.
Here are some tips for promoting quality interactions:
1. Get on their level – position yourself so that your child can clearly see your face to relate to you. This may be by going down on the floor with them, or sitting at a table on the same level.
2. Follow your child – watch what they are already interested in and join in with what they are doing. This could be through copying them for younger children, or by talking about the topic that they are currently interested in for older children e.g. a show or book that they are enjoying.
3. Have fun – laughter and fun promote learning in a positive way. Making your interactions fun for your child is a great way to keep them interested and engaged with you. You could do this by singing, using funny voices, tickling them, making faces or doing other things that you know they enjoy.
4. Give them a turn – talking at your child is not as effective for language learning as back and fourth interaction, so try and take time to listen carefully and then respond to what they are saying / doing.
