Say the same words during the same activities. For example, “shoes on”, “shoes off” every time you go out.
After saying a word, pause for a moment. This gives your toddler time to process and attempt a sound or word.
Avoid asking “what’s this?” repeatedly. Instead, name the object or action clearly and calmly.
If your toddler is focused on something, talk about that. Interest drives learning.
Well-designed first words books focus heavily on high-frequency vocabulary. They show clear images with simple, familiar words that link directly to a child’s world.
This is exactly why books like ChattyCubs First Words focus on everyday language rather than rare or abstract words.
Reading little and often, even just a few pages at a time, makes a real difference.
You do not need long lists. A small number of well-used words is far more effective.
- Start with 5–10 useful words
- Use them many times a day
- Add new words slowly as confidence grows
If a word is helping your child communicate, it is doing its job.
