🍂September: Fall Into Language

 Everyday Experiences Are Language-Building Moments

The beginning of a new season provides the perfect opportunity for new language experiences. September brings so many natural changes that often encourage us to make changes of our own—setting new routines, changing wardrobes, starting school, and adding family and community activities to our calendars. These new changes and everyday experiences are filled with opportunities to build language. This September, look for fun early-fall activities in your community. Depending on where you live, the weather may still be warm, but fall activities are beginning to pop up everywhere. Yes, September is the perfect time to FALL INTO LANGUAGE!

🍎 Look for Language in Everyday Activities  (Click on the  September  Newsletter for more ideas).

• In the garden:
  If you have a garden, invite your little one to help clean out summer plants and prepare for fall planting or next spring. Talk about what you are doing, what you see, and what comes next.
• Cleaning out the closet:
  Go through summer clothing together. Let your child sort clothing into categories such as too small, fits now, may fit next year, donate, or throw away. Sorting is a great way to practice vocabulary, categories, describing, and decision-making.
• Raking leaves:
  Here in Georgia, September can still be hot, but signs of fall are beginning to appear. Have your little one help rake leaves, collect leaves for a craft, or simply jump and play in the pile!
• On a walk or in the car:
  Look for different colors. Compare a leaf that is still green with one that is beginning to change. Talk about big and small, light and dark, soft and crunchy, and same and different.
• Explore your community:
  Many farms and community organizations begin offering fall activities in September. Check your local area for upcoming events and use these experiences as opportunities to talk, describe, compare, ask questions, and learn new words.

🍁 Remember: Every Experience Is an Opportunity!

Whatever you decide to do this September, remember that every experience is an opportunity to take A STEP toward facilitating language.

Take A STEP Toward Language

A — Ask fewer questions & comment more: Instead of constantly asking your child questions, tell them what you see and what you are doing.

S — Stop & take time to observe and listen: Watch what catches your child’s attention. Follow their lead and listen for opportunities to join their play or conversation.

T — Talk about everything: Talk about what you see, hear, touch, smell, and do. Everyday experiences are full of language!

E — Expand what your child says: If your child says, “leaf,” you can say, “Yes, a big green leaf!” Add just a little more language to what your child says.

P — Pause & give your child time to respond: Give your child a few extra seconds to process, communicate, or respond before jumping in.

This September, take A STEP and FALL INTO LANGUAGE! 🍂  Get tip and information  on the benefits of “Narrating” throughout your day in our September Newsletter.