Older Children are Fascinating

Allow your toddler to play with older children. Studies show that babies and toddlers are fascinated with the faces and voices of other children. This interaction is great for building new language and communication skills. Children are more apt to get down to your toddler’s level and interact with her in an organic way. If your toddler has an older sibling, she already has a huge advantage. If not, try to take advantage of day cares and play groups that mix ages. Invite other families over to play, go to story time at the public library, play with cousins, and join a play group.

Your toddler’s vocabulary is about to explode over the next year. Give him lot of opportunity to learn new words and types of interactions!

References:

The American Academy of Pediatrics

ASHA