Parents can help their child grow their vocabulary at home by talking every day, reading together, and playing word games. You can also label things around the house, make a “word of the day,” and talk about new words you hear in books, shows, or podcasts.
Engage in daily conversations
- Use varied language: Try using new or interesting words when you talk and ask your child to describe things with more detail.
- Ask open-ended questions: Ask questions like “why,” “how,” or “what do you think?” to help them explain their ideas.
- Rephrase and extend: Repeat your child’s words using richer language. For example: “Yes, you built a very tall skyscraper with lots of windows.”
Read together
- Read aloud daily: Read books, magazines, or articles together so your child hears new words.
- Discuss new words: Stop when you see a new word and explain it in a simple way.
- Talk about the book: After reading, talk about what happened to help your child remember and use new words.
Play games
- Word games: Play games like charades or simple card games that use words.
- Board and online games: Play word-based board games or online vocabulary games.
- Memory and matching games: Match words with pictures or meanings to help kids remember them.
Create a word-rich environment
- Label objects: Put sticky notes on everyday items to help your child learn word meanings.
- Create a word wall: Hang new words on a wall and encourage your child to use them in sentences.
- Keep books accessible: Make sure books are easy to reach around your home.
- Start a vocabulary jar: Write new words on slips of paper and review them at the end of the week.
Connect words to the real world
- Relate words to experiences: Help your child see how new words fit into their own life.
- Use real-life examples: Show them real examples, like showing what “simmer” means while cooking.
- Encourage journaling: Have your child write about their day using new words they’ve learned.