Toddler Speech: Words and Rhymes

Children at this age are fascinated by words, often making up their own when the need arises.

Here's how to take advantage of this interest:

• Pick out some short poems that capture your child's attention.

• Learn the poems together, emphasising the rhymes.

• Later, pick a rhyme for each part of your child's day – riding in the car, taking a bath, getting up in the morning. She'll love the repetition and consistency of having an accompaniment to her daily rhythms.

The best news of all? Rhyme work helps to build your child's memory skills and her interest in words – all while you're having fun together!