Navigating the Waiting Game: Practical Tips and Strategies to Support Language Development Right Now
Professional Tips and Strategies to Boost Your Child’s Speech and Language Development
What to Do When You’re in the In-Between
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you might be concerned about your child’s speech or language development. Maybe you’re waiting for an appointment with the pediatrician, or you’re on a waitlist for an evaluation and therapy services. Many parents experience this “in-between”—the waiting, the wanting to do something, but not knowing what to do.
We’ve been there too. As moms and professionals, we understand how frustrating the wait can be. Even still, there are meaningful ways to support your child’s language development right now. If we were out for coffee and you asked what you could do while you wait, here’s what we’d tell you.
Please note: This post is for educational purposes. We are not giving medical advice.
QUESTIONS TO REFLECT ON
First, know this: It’s not your fault. You’re a great parent, and the fact that you’re concerned shows just how much you care.
Now, let’s focus on your child’s strengths.
What are they already doing well?
What toys or activities do they enjoy?
What do you love doing together?
These are great places to start building their communication skills.
Also, think about what you’d like your child to communicate more clearly. What would make the biggest difference in reducing frustration for both of you?
If you're unsure, check out Section 3 of our Play Guide Bundle for help setting specific goals.
Practical Tips & Strategies for Supporting Language Development TODAY
SMALL TWEAKS, BIG IMPACT
You’re likely already doing a lot for your child—talking, reading, and playing. Let’s build on what you’re doing with a few simple tweaks that are sure to make a big difference. These tips can be used right away while you wait for individualized support!
Comment > Question
Asking too many questions can put pressure on toddlers, especially if they’re still learning to communicate. Instead of asking “What does the cow say?”, say, “The cow says moo”. (The first option is good. The second is better.) Commenting removes pressure and gives your child the space to learn at their own pace.
Use Visual Supports
When offering a snack, show your toddler their options while saying them. This will help your child connect words to objects. If they point instead of speaking, model the words for them: “You want the apple.”
Get Their Attention (And Show Your Mouth)
Toddlers have short attention spans. When you talk, hold items close to your face so they can watch how you form words. This helps them understand and imitate sounds better.
Acknowledge All Communication Attempts
Whether they use words, gestures, or sounds, praise your child’s efforts to communicate. If they point at a toy truck and say “buh,” respond with, “Yes, truck!” This encourages them to keep trying.
Less is More
Focus on introducing just two new concepts at a time—keep it simple. The key is to integrate these into daily routines and play, making them meaningful and relevant.
Need more ideas? Check out our Play Guide and Mini Daily Routine Guide for strategies you can easily use at home to support your child’s language development.
INFORMATION TO GATHER WHILE YOU WAIT
As you wait for an evaluation, use the time to collect information that will help the speech therapist understand your child better. Here’s what you can start gathering:
Medical and developmental history
Communication milestones and current abilities
Any previous evaluations from speech, occupational, or physical therapists
Come prepared with any questions you have for the therapist also. Consider asking:
What does a typical therapy session look like?
Will I be able to participate in sessions?
How are therapy goals set and tracked?
Will you provide strategies for us to use at home?
Gathering this information ensures a productive evaluation and helps build a strong partnership with your therapist. 👌
Resources to Support You Right Now
We know waiting can be tough, so we’ve created multiple resources to help you support your child’s development today.
Shop the Play by Play Guide
This comprehensive Play Guide Bundle includes easy-to-use play prompts, early learning concepts, and clinically supported strategies to enhance your child’s language and communication skills.
Join the growing number of families who are taking action! — And If you’re not ready to commit to the full bundle, start with an individual toy guide to get a feel for how it works!
Join the Play Day Challenge
This is a parent favorite. Over 100 families have benefited from this challenge. Start today and learn quick, no-pressure tips for creating playful learning moments every day.
Download THE MINI DAILY ROUTINE GUIDE
This guide includes 4 daily routines to enhance your child’s communication skills at home. Enjoy this free gift on us and download yours today!
Explore Our Blog
One of the biggest ways we’ve tried to invest in you is through our play guide bundle, but our blog is packed with professional advice and practical tips for everyday play-based learning. We cover topics related to play, language development, daily routines, and parent tips!
Supporting your child’s language development doesn’t have to wait. You can start now with these small steps, and we’re here to help every step of the way.
If you have questions, reach out to us at hello@elevatetoddlerplay.com.