As busy moms, we’re always on the go. Between work, errands, and family time, it can feel like there’s never enough time to focus on speech and language development. But the good news is, you don’t need to carve out extra time. You can easily play fun language games with your child in everyday moments! Not only do these games help grow your child’s speech and language skills, but they also offer a great way to bond and laugh together. Here are a few simple and fun ideas you can start using today.
Why Play Speech and Language Games?
Speech and language games help children learn new words, understand how language works, and boost their ability to express themselves. Kids don’t even realize they’re learning because they’re having fun! These games also strengthen their listening and attention skills. As a mom, you’ll love how easy it is to fit these activities into your day—whether in the car, cooking dinner, or just relaxing at home.
🧿 Game #1: “I Spy”
How to Play: This classic game can be played anywhere! Start by saying, “I spy with my little eye something that is…” and give a clue based on the color, shape, or size of something around you. Let your child guess what it is. Then take turns!
Why It Works: “I Spy” encourages children to describe what they see, use new vocabulary, and think about the details of objects around them. It also promotes listening skills and attention.
When to Play: During car rides, waiting in line, or at the park.
🤔 Game #2: “20 Questions”
How to Play: Think of an object, animal, or person, and let your child ask up to 20 yes-or-no questions to guess what it is. Then, switch roles so your child gets a turn to pick an object.
Why It Works: This game teaches kids to ask good questions and think critically. It’s also great for practicing how to form yes-or-no questions, which helps with sentence structure.
When to Play: Perfect for long drives or relaxing at home.
🤷♀️ Game #3: “Simon Says”
How to Play: One person is “Simon” and gives instructions starting with “Simon says…” like “Simon says touch your nose.” Everyone has to follow the instructions. But if Simon doesn’t say “Simon says” and someone still follows the command, they’re out.
Why It Works: “Simon Says” strengthens listening skills, helps children follow directions, and encourages them to think before acting. This is key in building better focus and impulse control, too!
When to Play: While getting ready for bed, waiting for an appointment, or when you want to get kids moving.
🎤 Game #4: “Rhyme Time”
How to Play: Say a word and have your child think of a word that rhymes. For example, you say “cat” and your child says “hat.” Keep going until no one can think of any more rhyming words!
Why It Works: Rhyming helps children recognize sounds in words, which is important for both speaking and reading. It also encourages creativity.
When to Play: While cooking, driving, or walking around the neighborhood.
🦄 Game #5: “Story Starters”
How to Play: Start a sentence like, “Once upon a time, there was a brave dragon who…” and let your child finish the sentence. You can take turns adding to the story. The sillier, the better!
Why It Works: This game helps children practice creating sentences, using imagination, and developing their storytelling skills. It also encourages them to think quickly and stay engaged in conversation.
When to Play: Bedtime, during a meal, or anytime you have a few minutes to spare.
👜 Game #6: “What’s in the Bag?”
How to Play: Grab a bag and put a few household objects inside without your child seeing. Have them reach in, feel an object, and guess what it is. Once they guess, ask them to describe what they felt.
Why It Works: This game helps children describe textures and shapes, expanding their vocabulary and expressive language skills. It’s also great for building critical thinking and sensory awareness.
When to Play: At home during quiet time or while cleaning up around the house.
Why Incorporate These Games?
These simple speech and language games are fun and easily fit into your daily routine. Incorporating them into your life helps support your child’s communication skills, whether you’re on the go or at home. And the best part? You don’t need any special materials or extra prep time!
By playing these games, you’re helping your child learn to use language naturally and engagingly. Over time, you’ll see them grow more confident in expressing themselves and understanding others. Plus, you’ll strengthen your bond as you laugh and play together!
For additional speech-language resources, check out the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s website (https://www.asha.org) and to learn about speech therapy services, visit https://nataliecohenslp.com/speech-articulation-therapy/
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