LET’S GIVE THEM SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT!
OCTOBER 2015
Oral language is the foundation of literacy. Concepts about the world, vocabulary, phonological awareness, the structure of language, and communication with others are rooted in oral language. The brain is wired to talk, and it’s pretty amazing the way most children naturally learn to speak and listen. However, since children are spending more time in front of an electronic device, it’s critical that we balance screen time with active learning and opportunities to talk, talk, talk. It’s time to TURN OFF the screen and TURN ON activities that engage children physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually.
Most language (speaking and listening) is acquired indirectly. Children communicate long before they know words through their cries and facial expressions. They begin word calling and then imitate others as they figure out rules and grammar. Vygotsky’s theory of language contends that children acquire language as a result of engaging social experiences. Talking is a child’s way of affirming what she knows. It’s how children process all the information they experience in their daily lives. According to the experts, authentic literacy experiences, play, and social interactions are a MUST!
It’s interesting that the two top skills employers look for when they hire someone are good oral communication skills and the ability to get along with others. With technological advances in years to come, educators need to recognize the value of developing oral communication skills. Children need to speak in complete sentences, organize their thoughts, speak clearly, and use appropriate English to convey their thoughts.
Oral language is a lifelong adventure, and we are lucky to hold children’s hands and guide them along this journey!
PRINCIPLES TO KEEP IN MIND
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Talk, talk, talk!
Read, read, read!
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Sing, sing, sing!
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Give children time to “play” and communicate with friends in learning centers.
Say finger plays, rhymes, chants, and poems each day.
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Model speaking in complete sentences, using good grammar, eye contact, and body language.
Expect children to answer in a complete sentence. Model how a sentence should sound and have children repeat it.
Expand on what children have to say by offering details.
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Act like children are great conversationalists. “Ping-pong” language back and forth to stretch children’s words and thoughts.
Take time to listen to children and respect what they have to say.
Accept differences in dialect and minor speech problems. Realize that most children will outgrow these things. (You do need to be aware of noticeably different abilities or hearing problems and seek advice from specialists.)
Incorporate a balance of teacher directed, small group, partner, and independent activities.
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Schedule quiet time for children to think and organize their thoughts.
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Provide a safe and secure environment where children will feel free to express their thoughts.
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Value children’s imaginations and creativity.
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Ask open-ended questions.
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Use circle time to teach children how to take turns and listen to others. Discuss what you will do each day and then review experiences at the end of the day.
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Challenge children to remember, recall, and relate information. Repeating information actually improves memory and helps children learn.
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Use language as the “hook” to relate real experiences to new or abstract concepts.
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The home environment has the greatest impact on language development, so it is important to involve families. (Click to see the “parent power pak” on drjean.org for more ideas.)