We see you, parents. It can feel overwhelming trying to make sure your kids are learning everything they need. We're moms too, and we totally get it. Many parents wonder, "Did I miss the window?" or "Am I doing this right?" But here’s the thing: you’re right where you need to be. Let’s start from here, together.

So, what are basic concepts?
They’re the words that help children understand and engage with the world around them. These words are the building blocks that allow your child to follow directions, join in daily routines, and have conversations. Think of them as the foundation for so many of the things we do every day.

In this post, we’ll cover:

The 4 main types of basic concepts (keeping it simple!)
The key skills for each concept (straight to the point!)
Words you can start modeling today (so you can jump right in!)
Practical activities to reinforce these concepts (keeping it real!)

4 MAIN CATEGORIES OF BASIC CONCEPTS

Spatial Concepts

Spatial words indicate the location of an item. These words help kids understand where things are in relation to each other.
Most children master spatial words by kindergarten (McLaughlin, 1998).

WORDS TO MODEL: in, out, up, down, on, off, over, under, top, bottom, front, back, between, next to, through, around

Quantitative Concepts

Kids start grasping quantity concepts before they can count. For example, a child might choose the pile with "more" candy even if they can’t count how many pieces are there (Bracken, 2006).

WORDS TO MODEL: some, many, a lot, a little, more, less, all, none, one, few

QUALITATIVE Concepts

These concepts compare or describe things, helping children understand size, color, texture, and weight (McLaughlin, 1998).

WORDS TO MODEL: big, small, fast, slow, short, long, soft, hard, quiet, loud, light, heavy, smooth, rough

Temporal Concepts

Temporal words explain how events relate to each other in time. They can be tricky because time is abstract and relative. Younger children often master simple order concepts like "before" and "after" early, while words like "while" or "at the same time" take longer (McLaughlin, 1998).

WORDS TO MODEL: before, after, first, next, last, during, while, at the same time

Everyday Activities That Teach Basic Concepts

Incorporating Language Skills into Play and Routines

Parents don’t need more on their plate.

The good news is that you can naturally work basic concepts into things you’re already doing with your child. No extra time required! Start recognizing the everyday language opportunities around you, and it’ll soon feel effortless.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Spatial Concept: In/Out

Play Activity: Bubbles—put the bubble wand in and take it out of the container.
Daily Routine: Mail—talk about putting mail in the mailbox and taking it out.

Quantitative Concept: A Little/A Lot

Play Activity: Pretend food—I have a lot of fries and a little ketchup.
Daily Routine: Brushing teeth—discuss when putting a little toothpaste on the toothbrush.

Qualitative Concept: Fast/Slow

Play Activity: Vehicles—talk about whether the cars are moving fast or slow.
Daily Routine: Grocery shopping—push the cart fast or slow and talk about the speed.

Temporal Concept: Before/After

Play Activity: Musical instruments—blow the whistle before you sing and dance after you hear the whistle.
Daily Routine: Getting in the car—before I drive, we need to buckle up. After we get out, you can grab your backpack.

Pssst… Need a little extra help?

We’ve got you covered!

Check out our Play by Play guide—it’s packed with 10 toy guides, strategies, and resources to help you keep building those language skills.

Katie H. said, “All of it together is so comprehensive and really all you need.” after using our Play by Play with her 3-year-old twins.

Let’s help you get there too!

Not quite ready for the full guide? No worries! We offer individual toy guides for things you likely already own, complete with play prompts and basic concepts to get you started.

SHOP THE TOY GUIDES

Learn more