PRE-LINGUISTIC SKILLS

Long before your child says “mama” or “dada,” they’re already communicating — just in their own way. Those sweet smiles, babbles, and little gestures are all part of
what we call prelinguistic skills, and they’re the building blocks of language. As parents, you’re your child’s first and favorite communication partner. The great news? You don’t need fancy toys or special training to help your little one develop these skills — just your time, attention, and a little bit of playfulness.

So, What Are Prelinguistic Skills?

Think of prelinguistic skills as all the ways children “talk” before they have words. It’s the eye contact during a cuddle, the excited kick when you walk into the room, the babbling back-and-forth that feels like a mini conversation. When your child looks at you, points to a toy, or takes turns “talking” while you coo or hum back — that’s communication!

One important milestone is joint attention — when your child looks at you and then at something else, like a dog or a toy, and then looks back at you to share the moment. That simple glance back and forth shows that they are including you in their experience.

Why It Matters

Before children can use words, they need to learn that communication connects them withothers. Children who have lots of early back-and-forth interactions tend to pick up words more easily later on. Every smile, sound, and shared look helps your child’s brain grow in communication.

Easy Ways to Support Your Child’s Prelinguistic Skills

1.Talk to Them — A Lot!
Narrate and label throughout the day: “Let’s eat, yummy,” “ball,” “Tickle time,” “Night-Night.” It may feel silly at first, but your child is soaking it all in. When they react to you, respond as if you’re having a real conversation — because in a way you are!

2. Get Face-to-Face

Make eye contact, smile, and exaggerate your expressions and words. This helps them engage with you.

3. Play Simple Social Games
Peek-a-boo, pat-a-cake, and little tickle games are perfect for facilitating opportunities for social engagement, teaching language and turn taking with your child!!

4. Follow Their Lead
If your child reaches for a toy or stares at something interesting, talk about it! “Oh, you see the bird? Tweet tweet!” Follow their lead. Let go of what you think they should be doing and do what interests them. Literally follow them around and see what toys they prefer and use those toys to engage with your child.

5. Use Gestures Naturally
Wave when you say “bye-bye,” nod for “yes,” shake your head for “no” or give high fives. Children pick up on these quickly, and it gives them ways to “speak” before they can form words.

The Bottom Line
Language learning starts long before talking. Every shared smile, sound, and glance is a small but powerful step toward communication. So keep talking, playing, and connecting —you’re helping your child build the foundation for a lifetime of language and learning.

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