Grocery Store Gabbing--communication during daily routines

Lately, I've had several opportunities to go to the grocery store with my youngest child, 18 month old Logan. This is a rare, rare treat, as usually I have at least two of my children with me, and never with my baby boy alone! Being a busy family, I always find going to the grocery store a great time to catch up with the "big kids" (even though, yes, I would prefer to shop alone), but being alone with Logan made me realize what a great time it is to communicate with my little one too! Here are some ideas for the grocery store: 1. Take turns vocalizing with your child--the grocery store is a stimulating environment, and likely to get your child babbling. If he says "oo-da-da-ba-ga!", say something back to him! Practice this early form of conversation. 2. Talk to your child about what you're buying--"apples, bananas, carrots, cereal, crackers, milk, cheese". See if your child tries to imitate any of the words or signs. 3. Point out interesting items to your child--at the store I go to, the pet section is near the grocery section, which means we always have to look at the fish! Say to your little one, "Look at the fish!" while pointing to the fish tanks. Encourage your child to look, and smack your lips like a fish. See if he'll imitate you. 4. Talk about how things feel--if you get something out of the freezer, have him touch it and say "oooh, cold!". or maybe you'll get a rough kiwi, shiny apple, or soft bread. 5. Practice sound imitation--Mom says "bababa", child says "bababa". Mom says "mamama", child says "mamama" etc. If possible, keep your trip short--most kids will only last a half hour before the first tantrum hits! Have fun and enjoy these precious moments. Happy Talking! Where is your favorie place to take your children shopping? Your least favorite place?

Signing Sick Day! "Fish"

Another day home with sick kids!  These sick days seem to be the time for me to catch up on blogging!  Today's video is the sign for fish, which is wiggling your hand through the air like a fish swims through the water. 

While you're at it, have your child practice smacking his lips together to make a "fish sound".  Look at books to try to find pictures of fish.  Ask your child simple questions such as "What's that?" ("fish"), "What does a fish say?" (smack lips), and "Where's the fish?" or "Show me the fish."