A Game-Changing Approach to Early Language Development

  • Our premise is twofold.

    One: Language serves its purpose when a message is understood. A message is most clear when it communicates exactly what it intends to communicate. That happens with clear, efficient sentences and refined word choices. (We are not talking about art here.) The closer the match between the message expressed and the message understood, the more effective the communication.

    Two: Children can understand and integrate sophisticated language far earlier than most people realize. Introducing them to refined, sophisticated choices early on helps strengthen their own power of refinement as it relates to their perception, since language a main basis of perception. It also empowers them emotionally, socially, and academically. The goal is to not hear them speaking (or see them writing) these language choices early on, rather it is to let the repeated introduction of refined choices exercise their brain and refine their capacity and preference for sophistication and powerful communication, (specifically due to its efficiency).

  • How do we help little kids reap the benefits of being exposed early on to refined, sophisticated word choices? The answer is actually quite simple:

    1. Repetition

    2. Choose about 10 sophisticated words that you will frequently use. This is your sophisticated word bank! Add more in as they get older. (Note: You can sprinkle in other wonderful words beyond your 10 core words, just make sure to have a solid group that you repeat so the children's confidence and understanding of them can grow.) *If you need help choosing some great words, read G is for Gossamer for reference.

    3. Choose some stories that feature interesting word choices. (Suggestions coming soon.)

    4. Don't overdo it. Choose words that will work for them. See below (and check the blog) for examples & explanations.

    5. Most importantly: be casual and cool about it all. We are just weaving words into our sentences and exposing them. The idea is not to become drill sergeants or professors. If we want our kids to enjoy the experience, then us being relaxed about it is paramount. To that end: don't have any expectations and instead, consider this a support system.

  • Your Word Bank is your 10 core sophisticated words that you'll repeat regularly to your children. The concept here is that the more they hear these words in different contexts, they more they will understand and integrate their meanings. These words are investments!

    The goal is not for your children to define or show off these words. Rather, the goal is to help shape their mind to be more inclined towards refinement and specificity. Practice enhances and strengthens their capability.

    Add on to your word bank as feels natural and correct for you and your family! And feel free to weave in other sophisticated word choices beyond your core word bank. You just want to make sure you have a good set that you are repeating so your children have the chance to really learn them, integrate them, and exercise their brain.

    For ideas, mosey on over to our sample word swapping page.

  • Example 1 (Works): Darling, you threw that ball so far! You are so strong! It went so far it nearly touched the horizon!

    Explanation: Adding in horizon works here because it fits seamlessly into the description of how the child threw the ball. It is metaphorical but it is also something concrete that can be pointed to. It is also a word choice that can be emphasized with body language (by pointing to the horizon) to help a child grasp and integrate the meaning of the word.

  • Example 2 (Fails): Darling, you threw that ball so far! You are strong! It almost traveled into outer space and metamorphosed into a comet!!

    Explanation: Metamorphosed is too abstract—the brain has less ability to deduce its meaning because it is still learning the basics of language and developing its cognitive powers.

    We do not advocate for defining each and every word you sprinkle in. Rather, we believe in the amazing ability of children to figure out what words mean through the incredible, not-to-be-underestimated nature of language development.

Listen to the Experts

  • The most important factor in children's language development is the quality and quantity of the language they hear from their caregivers and in their environments.

    Catherine Snow, Harvard Graduate School of Education Professor and Researcher

  • Exposing children to a rich and varied vocabulary early on can set the stage for their future learning and development.

    Catherine Snow, Harvard Graduate School of Education Professor and Researcher

  • Vocabulary knowledge in early childhood is crucial for later reading comprehension. Children need to be exposed to a wide range of words and their meanings to build a strong foundation for literacy.

    Susan Neuman, Professor at New York University

  • The language environment that children are exposed to in their early years has a profound impact on their cognitive and linguistic development. Early exposure to rich vocabulary can significantly boost their academic performance and social skills.

    Anne Fernald, Researcher and Professor at Stanford University

  • Language development in the early years is a critical predictor of academic success. Children who have a rich vocabulary and strong language skills are more likely to excel in reading and other academic areas.

    David Dickinson, Professor and Researcher at Vanderbilt University

  • Children who are engaged in conversations with adults and are exposed to diverse vocabulary from an early age tend to have better language skills and cognitive abilities.

    Anne Fernald, Researcher and Professor at Stanford University