by Suzie Chafin
To help prevent speech delays, or if you are concerned that your multiples may be experiencing a delay, there are some things you can do to help. Aside from seeking professional help, there are some strategies you can employ at home.
1. READ! Read out loud to your twins every single day. It's a great opportunity to encourage language. Point and talk about pictures and words on each page. Ask them, "What do you think happens next?" and other questions. The more conversation there is between parent and child, the more opportunities for language skills to develop. Limit the amount of television your child watches. Those moments may provide a parent with much needed sanity, but they do little to encourage language development.
2. Repeat. When your multiples speak to you, show each child that you understand what he said by repeating back his words and expanding on the information given. For example, if Jack asks for milk by saying “milk”, respond with “Jack would like some milk. Look Jack, we have a green cup for your milk”.
3. Talk. Talk often with each of your twins or multiples. Turn off the radio in the car and talk about where you are going and what you will do when you get there. For example, on the way to the zoo talk about all the animals you will see there, and the sounds that each animal makes. At home describe the different ingredients you are using as you cook. As you pick up around the house, talk about the toys you are putting away.
4. Respond appropriately. If your toddler points or grunts at items, do not reward his lack of language by giving him what he wants. Instead, only respond when an effort to verbalize the request has been made. Any attempt to verbalize should be rewarded and praised. Don't frustrate the child by correcting or demanding that he “say it like this.” Instead, model the correct way, such as, “Cookie? Do you want a cookie? Here is your cookie.”
5. Take turns. If you have older children who try to “talk” for the children, speak to them about the importance of letting the little ones ask for things. If your child’s twin is trying to do all the talking for him, encourage the twin to let “Jack have a turn to talk.”
Next: Suzie's Story: One Family's Struggle
Suzie Chafin is a Dallas, Texas mom of four children, including identical twin boys. She writes and lectures about family topics such as postpartum depression, managing multiples and Christian parenting. She can be reached at suzie@novocoat.com.
