The most important language materials for a toddler are the materials and experiences in the child’s environment. Reinforcing the importance of verbal communication, speaking clearly, and supporting the child’s expanding vocabulary are a daily process in the toddler environment. For the toddler, written language is experienced through the adult’s oral reading and story time.

Pre-reading

  • Matching cards
  • Vocabulary cards
  • Stories read aloud
  • Size and shape discrimination exercises
  • Picture-word cards

Matching

  • Tracing objects
  • Tracing shapes

Word Recognition

  • Sandpaper letters
  • Isolating initial sounds

Pre-writing

  • Sandbox tracing