These early years are full of fun, chatter and curiosity—and the way you respond helps shape your child’s brain, build confidence and prepares them for school.
Whether you’re reading bedtime books, chatting in the car or making up silly songs together, your words matter. The more you talk, listen and play with your preschooler, the more their language and literacy skills grow.
Everyday Activities Build Strong Language Skills
You don’t need fancy tools or apps—just time and connection. Here are some easy and meaningful ways to support your child’s language development:
Talk Together
Make conversation a regular part of your day. Ask your child about their thoughts, what they liked about their day or what they’re curious about. Listen closely and respond with interest. When children feel heard, they learn their voice matters—and they’ll be more likely to keep sharing.
Play with Rhymes
Songs and rhymes help your child hear patterns in words, an important early reading skill. Sing classic nursery rhymes, play rhyming games or make up goofy songs as you go about your day. Rhyming builds phonological awareness in a way that’s fun and memorable.
Tell Stories
Children love hearing stories about you—what you did when you were little, funny things that happened at the store, or made-up tales with silly characters. Encourage your child to create their own stories, too. Storytelling helps them learn how to organize their thoughts and use descriptive language.
Ask Open-Ended Questions
Try to ask questions that invite more than a “yes” or “no” answer. Instead of “Did you have fun at the park?” try “What did you like best at the park?” These types of questions help your child think more deeply and practice using more words to express their ideas.
Read with Your Preschooler Every Day
Reading together is one of the most powerful things you can do to support your child’s language and literacy skills. It builds vocabulary, strengthens listening and helps your child understand how stories work. It also creates a cozy, joyful time to connect with your child.
- Pick the right books. Choose stories with simple words and colorful illustrations. Follow your child’s interests—whether it’s animals, trucks or fairy tales.
- Make it interactive. Let your child turn the pages. Point to pictures and ask, “What do you think is happening here?” or “Why do you think they feel that way?
- Stick to a routine. Try to read together at the same time each day, like before nap or bedtime. The consistency helps your child look forward to it.
- Talk about what you read. After the story, ask questions that help your child connect to the book. “What was your favorite part?” or “Would you have made the same choice?”
Every Word Counts
Remember, all kids learn language at their own pace. What matters most is your consistency, encouragement and attention. When you talk, read and play with your child, you’re not just building vocabulary—you’re building a strong foundation for learning, self-expression and connection that lasts a lifetime.