1. Use your best speech when talking with your child. If your child makes a mistake, repeat their message back to them correctly. Most children learn by listening. They do not need to repeat it directly after you. Just provide a good model for them to hear and imitate.  

2. Let your child know when you don't understand them. Don't just pretend to understand. Ask them to show you what they mean, or tell you again.  

3. Be a relaxed and attentive listener. Wait until your child has completed his/her thought before responding. I know this one is hard to do when you have a busy schedule, but set aside time each day to be a good listener.  

4.  Help build your child's vocabulary. Introduce a new word and offer its definition or use it in a sentence that is easily understood

Speech and Language Development -Birth to five

Click on each age link to find out information on normal speech and language development.

http://www.asha.org/public/speech/development/chart.htm

Speech sound development chart

What sounds should your child be saying and at what age?  View this chart to get a general idea.

http://www.talkingchild.com/speechchart.aspx

• American Speech-Language Hearing Association

  Click here to find general and specific information regarding speech,language and hearing impairments.

• Apraxia

  Find out what apraxia of speech is and resources for helping a child with this diagnosed problem.

• Center for Speech and Language Disorders

  Click on this lick to find more resources for improving communication skills for students and parents.

• Stuttering Foundation of America

  Use this website to find general information on stuttering disorders and resources for improving the fluency of your child's speech.

• Speech and Language games

  Online games for speech and language

• Sound loaded books

  a streaming service with read-aloud, animated storybooks. Each storybook includes free lesson plans. 1 month free trial

• Speech TX

  Use this website for home speech activities to practice communication skills outside of school.

• Juniorsweb

  Online speech and language activities for practice at home.