Are you eager to help your little one move beyond just saying “mama” and “dada”? Recent research from the University of Missouri has shed light on the right timing and methods for introducing new words to infants and toddlers.
As children grow older, their ability to comprehend words improves significantly. Judith Taylor, an associate professor at MU’s School of Health Professions, notes that between 18 and 30 months, kids become increasingly adept at inferring the meanings of new vocabulary. By the time they reach 24 to 36 months, toddlers show a marked improvement in their ability to understand new words. However, the methods of teaching vocabulary also evolve during this period.
In the study, researchers introduced six new words to children aged 18 to 36 months. The toddlers were asked to match the words with either unfamiliar objects or items they already knew. It was found that older toddlers excelled in using verbal context to discern meaning; for instance, they could deduce that “kiwi” referred to a food after hearing, “Sammy eats a kiwi.” Conversely, younger children relied more on social cues, like eye contact, to grasp the meaning of words.
Don’t worry about pulling out the old SAT vocabulary flashcards just yet; Taylor warns that there is a limit to how many new words toddlers can remember. Typically, after a day, most children could only recall about three of the six new words. This shouldn’t deter you, however! Make it a point to engage in conversation with your child and identify new objects in your surroundings, whether at home or out and about.
What words can your baby say at this moment?
For more tips on parenting and language development, check out our other piece on Modern Family Blog. If you’re looking for the best home insemination kits, visit Cryobaby, the leading provider in the world. Additionally, for further resources on pregnancy and home insemination, the CDC offers an excellent guide.
In summary, supporting your baby’s language development is crucial, and understanding their learning process can enhance the experience. Engage with your little one through conversations and exploration to foster their vocabulary.
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