Receptive language, at its most basic definition, is the ability to understand words and language. Receptive language skills are essential in order for children to communicate successfully. These skills allow children to make sense of and respond to things that they see and hear.
Children who struggle with receptive language skills have trouble with understanding words and concepts, struggle to answer questions or follow instructions, and may be unable to comprehend stories or retell events accurately. While simple, daily things like talking to your children and reading books together build receptive language skills, there are also a lot of fun ways to build these skills more intentionally.
Below are a few things that you can try at home!
Label & Describe
Even with very young babies, talking and describing as you are doing tasks is a great way to help build receptive language skills. Narrating tasks as you are doing them may feel a little silly at first, especially to a baby who is not yet capable of responding, but the benefits far outweigh any discomfort that you may feel!
As your baby grows into a toddler, this can become a fun game that you play together. Go for a walk with your child and name and describe what you see. For example, you could say: “I see a tree! I notice that it has green leaves. What do you notice?” This game can be done anywhere, with almost any object!
What’s in the Bag?
This is a really fun game to play that children can’t resist! Put a random assortment of items from around the house into a bag (a block, a toothbrush, a cup, etc).
Have your child reach into the bag (no peeking!) and feel one item. Ask them to describe the item, asking questions to help prompt them as needed. (“Is it hard or soft?” “Is it8 big or small?”)
Encourage your child to guess what the item might be. Alternatively, close your eyes and have your child pick an item out of the bag, then describe it to you to see if you can guess what it is.
I-Spy
There are a lot of fun ways to play I-Spy! You can play while driving, taking a walk, or just sitting in the living room.
The first player chooses an object within sight of all other players and says: “I spy with my little eye something ____.” You can play using colors, letters, shapes, rhymes, numbers, or adjectives.
For example, if you are taking a walk and see a tree, you could say “I spy with my little eye something green,” or “I spy with my little eye something that rhymes with a flea.”
In addition to building receptive language skills, this game can be used with any skill that your child is working on (letter/number recognition, phonics, rhymes, etc.)
Simon Says
You probably remember this game from your childhood, but if you don’t, the only rule is that you only follow the direction if you hear the words “Simon Says” before the direction is given.
Take turns with your child giving and receiving instructions, gradually increasing the length of the command. For example, “Simon says touch your knees.” “Simon says touch your knees, then touch your toes.” “Simon says touch your knees, touch your toes, then clap your hands.”
Your child will love trying to catch you not listening for “Simon Says!”
Obstacle Course
Take turns with your child setting up and giving directions for going through an obstacle course. Gradually increase the length of your verbal commands, starting with one direction (ex: “run to the swing set”) and building up to multi-step directions (ex: “Run to the swing set, then slide down the slide, then skip to the sandbox, then jump in the sand”). You child will love giving you directions and watching you complete their course!
I hope that you try out some of these activities at home with your child! If you did, please share what you did in our Facebook community.
As always, if you have concerns about your child’s development and would like to set up a free consultation to discuss your concerns, please reach out! I would love to help you determine your child’s individual needs. Remember, early intervention is key.
