DAD-STYLE TALK, SING AND POINT
As fathers, we often think about the big milestones in our children’s lives: their first steps, first words, and first days of school. However, there’s another foundational aspect to early childhood development that can sometimes be overlooked: the power of communication.
My wife and I are seeing the fruit of our investment in communication with our 5-year old son. He started kindergarten this year and is thriving in school in part, because we started using The Basics principles with him as a baby.
Talk: The Foundation of Connection
Talking to your child is one of the most effective ways to promote their language development and strengthen your bond with them. It’s not just about teaching them words but also about sharing experiences and emotions. Dads have a big role to play in this process – the more you engage with your child, the more their brains will develop. Here are some actionable tips:
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Everyday Conversations: Make it a habit to narrate your day-to-day activities. Whether you’re cooking dinner or running errands, share what you’re doing and why. This not only introduces new vocabulary but also helps your child understand the world around them.
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Engage your child in conversations by asking questions that require more than a yes or no answer. For example, instead of asking, “Did you have fun at the park?” try, “What was your favorite part of playing at the park?” This encourages them to express their thoughts and feelings.
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Read Together: Make reading a daily ritual. Choose age-appropriate books and encourage your child to point out pictures or predict what happens next. This fosters a love for reading and deepens your interaction.
Incorporating the Basic Talk, Sing, and Point into your daily routines can significantly enhance your relationship with your child while laying the groundwork for their language and cognitive development. These activities are not just educational; they are opportunities for bonding, laughter, and shared experiences.
As fathers, we have the incredible power to shape our children’s lives through simple interactions. So, let’s embrace the joy of talking, singing, and pointing because every moment spent together is a moment of growth!
– Jayvon Johnson, Basics Blogger, Educator and Founder of The Peculiar Dad Club
