@emmafontenot_slp: Why I Don’t Say “Say…” 👉🏼 Prompting your child to “say” a word may encourage repetition, but it doesn’t teach the meaning or function of language. For children to communicate, they need to understand what words mean and how to use them before they can say them independently. ⭐️ Let’s meet children where they are developmentally and build their understanding of language, rather than telling them to repeat after you. Communication is more than just talking! 🥰 Instead of “say ___,” try this: 👍🏼 If your child isn’t using words yet and cries or screams for a snack, model a gesture like pointing or reaching. 👍🏼 If your child points or reaches and knows a few words, give them the word and reinforce their attempt. 👍🏼 If your child says a word, repeat it back to them to reinforce their efforts. ⭐️ Save this post for later and follow for more speech tips and tricks! #intownspeechtherapy #speechtherapy

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Wednesday 24 September 2025 19:41:24 GMT