Point, Name, Pause

What you need

• a picture book with everyday things in it

How to do it

1. Sit together with a book full of everyday things.
2. Point to a picture and name it: "cup."
3. Point to the next one and wait a moment before you name it.
4. Let them turn the pages and go at their pace.

Why it matters

Naming and then pausing, instead of asking questions, gives them the word and the space to try it, without it feeling like a test.

What they're learning

Words and pictures

Every page is a set of names for things they see at home.

Space to talk

A pause is an invitation, not a question.

Sharing a book

Sitting close and looking together is the best part.

What to look for

Watch for them pointing to a picture and looking up at you.

A tip

If a word comes out, however unclear, say it back clearly and add one more: "ball" becomes "big ball". Never ask them to repeat it. Skip "what's that?" and just name things.

More like this

More Bricks, More Bubbles from 20 months · 5-10 min The Hello Song from 14 months · 5 min Bye-Bye, Bath Water from 14 months · 5 min Doctor Bear Checkup from 24 months · 20-35 min