How can I have a conversation with a child who doesn’t use words?
Think of conversations as an opportunity for vocal turn-taking. Even without words, they can still be meaningful. Vocalizations related to speech development, like coos and babbles, are counted by LENA in addition to spoken words.
Rethink the term “nonverbal/non-talker.” A child may have a developmental delay or other reason they are not using words yet, but are they using their voice in other ways?
Notice and respond. Show a child their voice has power by responding to their vocalizations.
Strategies to try
If using signs, always pair the sign and the spoken word that goes with it.
Try games and activities that use simple and repetitive sounds. For example, try blowing bubbles and repeating "pop, pop, pop" as you pop them.
Pay close attention to the sounds a child does make. When they make a sound, repeat it back to them and see what they do.
What strategy will you use to encourage vocal turn-taking?
