From Gestures to First Words: A Simple 3 Week Routine
Before words come, most toddlers move through a stage of gestures, sounds, and simple imitation. This is not “doing it wrong” - it's how the system warms up. You can build on gestures to make first words more likely.
Week 1: Copy their actions
Spend a few minutes each day simply copying what your toddler does with toys or objects. If they bang the block, you bang the block. If they tap the table, you tap the table.
- Wait a second after you copy them and see if they look back or repeat it.
- Think “back-and-forth game,” not “training session.”
Week 2: Add fun sounds
Keep playing the same copying game, but now add short, fun sounds while you play: “uh-oh,” “wow,” “pop,” “boom,” “wee.”
- Use the same few sounds all week so they become predictable.
- Say them when something happens: a car crashes, a block falls, a bubble pops.
Week 3: Use simple choices
Offer 2 choices in a clear container (two snacks, two toys, two books). Hold them up and name them slowly: “ball… car.” Then pause and wait.
- Accept a look, point, reach, or sound as their “answer.”
- Say the word again as you give it: “ball!”
These small, predictable routines give your toddler lots of chances to practice back-and-forth, sounds, and early words without pressure.
Want Help Boosting Your Child's First Words?
If you're ready to turn everyday moments into powerful opportunities for language growth, I created a free guide just for you: 5 Daily Speech Routines That Actually Build Language. These simple routines fit into things you're already doing - no “drilling sessions” required.
Get the Free 5 Speech RoutinesUse these routines alongside the ideas in this article to gently support your child as they build their first 10 words and beyond.
Educational only. Not a substitute for individualized evaluation or treatment.