First words
Three small ways to make a word meaningful
Point to it, find it somewhere new, then use it in a tiny phrase.
Begin with something you can see
Pick up a toy bear and say “bear” slowly. Invite your child to hand it to you. There is no need to ask for an immediate spoken repetition: pointing is a response too.
Find it in a different place
Look for a bear in a picture book, a photo or another toy. Recognising it in a new form is a different task from remembering a single flashcard. If it is unfamiliar, model the word again.
Try a little phrase
Say “A bear” or “Hello, bear” as you point or wave. Use short expressions you can model accurately. The activity does not need to become a test.
Try it today
Choose two familiar objects. Take turns naming them, passing them and finding them in pictures. Stop when your child has had enough, and feel free to revisit the same words next time.
Choosing an activity
A vocabulary app can provide pictures, audio and interaction. Look for familiar themes, understandable controls and a useful free sample. Little English Words is one option for practice, alongside everyday conversations.