Model language for kids instead of quizzing
As children learn and develop their language skills, parents and caregivers play a significant role in supporting their growth. However, the way in which adults approach language teaching can significantly affect children’s willingness and ability to learn. One common approach to teaching language skills involves quizzing children, which can create pressure and reduce the amount of time children spend practicing the skill. An alternative approach is modeling, which involves demonstrating a desired skill for the child without any pressure to perform. It is better to model language for kids instead of quizzing to reduce anxiety and pressure around speech development.
Model Language for Kids Instead of Quizzing:
When parents or caregivers quiz children, they typically ask them to repeat a target word or phrase. For example, a parent might say “Say ‘ball’ for mommy!” or “What animal is this?” These approaches may make children feel as though they are being put on the spot to perform, which can be uncomfortable and may reduce their motivation to learn. Additionally, quizzing can limit the amount of time children spend practicing the target skill, as they may feel as though they have already demonstrated the skill once and no longer need to practice it.
Model Language for Kids:
Modeling, on the other hand, involves demonstrating the desired language skill for the child without any expectation for the child to perform the skill. For example, if a parent wanted to teach a child how to count, they might count out loud while putting puzzle pieces together, saying “one, two, three” as they do so. The child may then observe the parent and begin to imitate the counting on their own. This approach allows children to observe the target skill in action and learn through observation and practice without feeling pressured to perform.
Benefits for Modeling Language for Kids:
In addition to reducing pressure and increasing the amount of time children spend practicing skills, modeling has several other benefits for language development. One advantage is that it helps children to develop their receptive language skills, or the ability to understand language. When children observe adults using language in context, they can begin to make connections between the words and the objects or actions they represent. This can help them to develop a deeper understanding of language and its uses.
Another benefit of modeling is that it allows children to learn language skills at their own pace. When children are quizzed, they may feel rushed or anxious, which can interfere with their ability to learn. Modeling, on the other hand, allows children to observe and practice language skills at a pace that is comfortable for them. This can help to build confidence and encourage children to continue learning.
Modeling can also be an effective way to teach language skills to children with developmental delays or disorders. Children with conditions such as autism or Down Syndrome may struggle with language development, but modeling can provide them with a clear and consistent example of how language is used. By observing adults using language in context, children with developmental delays can begin to develop their own language skills and communicate more effectively.
Strategies to Model Language for Kids:
There are several strategies that parents and caregivers can use to incorporate modeling into their language teaching. One effective approach is to use parallel talk, which involves describing what you are doing or what your child is doing as you go about your day. For example, you might say “You’re putting on your shoes! I see your red shoes. We’re going to the park!” as you get ready to leave the house. Another strategy is to use expansions, which involves expanding on the language that your child uses to make it more complex. For example, if your child says “doggy bark,” you might say “Yes, the doggy is barking! He’s saying ‘woof woof!’”
In conclusion, while quizzing may be a common approach to teaching language skills, it can create pressure and reduce the amount of time children spend practicing. Modeling, on the other hand, involves demonstrating language skills for children without any expectation for them to perform, which can reduce pressure and encourage learning. By incorporating modeling into language teaching strategies, parents and caregivers can support children in developing their language skills at their own pace and in a way that is enjoyable and engaging, ultimately setting them up for success in their communication and social interactions throughout their lives.