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Follow interest before adding language
If your child is lining up cars, narrate the line. If they are spinning a wheel, model 'spin,' 'stop,' and 'again.' Language sticks better when it attaches to attention that already exists.
Use fewer words, better timed
A short model at the exact moment of interest often beats a long explanation. Try one step above your child's current language, then pause.
Make the environment invite communication
Closed containers, missing pieces, silly mistakes, choices, turns, and pauses can create natural reasons to communicate without demanding performance.
Quick answers
Is play-based therapy evidence-based?
Play-based and naturalistic strategies are widely used in early language intervention, especially when they are intentional and responsive.
What toys are best?
Open-ended toys usually create more language opportunities than toys that perform one scripted action.
Important: Little Words is educational support for home practice. It is not a medical device, not an AAC replacement, and not a substitute for a licensed speech-language pathologist, pediatrician, or developmental evaluation.