Children are so inquisitive and may love to explore ideas in books. Around the age of 18 months, you can begin letting your child pick the books that he or she wants to “read.” Don’t worry if it’s the same book over and over again. While this might get boring and repetitive for you, your child benefits from reinforcing the same concepts. Read, and read often! Your child will benefit from hearing new words and listening to the cadence of how stories are told.

Even if children don't speak fluently, they might be able to express themselves through music and singing. Sing “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” or “Rain, Rain Go Away.” Pause at the end of the line, and see if your child can fill in the next word. See if he/she will sing with you. Then, celebrate! Any utterance is great progress. See below for adaptive song resources.