Talker in Training Books

You may have already heard, but books are one of the best tools we can use to grow a child's speech and language at home.

Why books?

Research says: “Shared book reading increased expressive vocabulary & language when parents were taught specific strategies” (Heidlage et. al., 2019)

That’s why I created Lamorinda Speech Therapy “talker-in-training” book stickers. In addition to being part of my parent coaching program, these books are spread around Walnut Creek, Lamorinda, and Pleasant Hill free little libraries. My hope is that a few focus words and a fun book give parents confidence to create mini learning opportunities, regardless of their child’s speech skill level.

Strategies you can try today:

If reading is something your little one already enjoys, here are SLP-approved (and research-approved) strategies you can use today with any book.

1.  Get face to face: Have your child sit in front of you or on you so they can see your face.

2.  Choose a book you know your child already loves or at least shows interest in already  

3.  Start on the first page, but let them explore

4.  Describe the picture/paraphrase instead of reading every word

5.  Leave out the last word on the page   

Most importantly, keep it fun. Stop when they are clearly done. Move on to a different book or activity when they look finished. Keeping it short, fun, and an overall positive activity, lays the groundwork to make reading an enjoyable experience in the long run!

Talker-in-Training Book List

Wondering what books a speech therapist might specifically recommend? Get your own talker-in-training books list made by an SLP and momma, when you sign up for the Lamorinda Speech Therapy monthly newsletter. Each newsletter includes three common books (you might already have them at home!), words to practice pointing to, others your little can try saying, and parent strategies to use that make a difference.