Helping Your Child’s Language Grow: Why Modelling Beats Constant Correction

It’s easy to want to fix every little mistake when your child is learning to talk, especially if they say things like “I goed to the shop” or “Her don’t like it.” But here’s the thing: constant correction can actually make kids feel self-conscious and stop them from trying.

There’s a better way, and it’s called modelling.

What is Modelling?

Modelling means repeating what your child says, but with correct grammar, in a natural way. It’s about showing, not telling.

Instead of: “No, that’s not how you say it.”

Try: “Oh, you went to the shop? That sounds fun!”

It’s subtle, gentle, and keeps the conversation flowing.

Why It Works

·      Takes the pressure off: No one likes to be corrected all the time.

·      Keeps communication positive: You’re showing you understand them.

·      Teaches by example:  Kids naturally pick up the way you talk.

Easy Ways to Model at Home

1.     Repeat with the right grammar Your child: “He runned fast!” You: “Yeah, he ran really fast!”

2.     Add extra detail Your child: “Dog sleep.”You: “Yes, the dog is sleeping on the couch.”

3.     Talk out loud during routines While making lunch: “I’m cutting the apple. Now I’m putting it in the bowl.”

4.     Read books together Point out sentences and talk about how they’re put together: “Look, it says ‘She was hiding under the table.’ That’s a great way to show what someone’s doing!”

What to Avoid

·      Don’t interrupt to correct every mistake

·      Don’t quiz your child or make them repeat you

·      Don’t say things like “That’s wrong” or “Say it properly”

The goal is to keep the conversation going, not stop it.

Quick Tips for Parents

·      Use full sentences when you talk with your child

·      Be patient, language takes time

·      Celebrate what they’re trying to say, not just how they say it

·      Keep things fun and connected

Remember…

Kids learn how to talk by listening to you. If you focus less on correcting and more on modelling the language you want them to use, they’ll pick it up over time, without fear of making mistakes.

Small changes in the way you talk can make a big difference in how your child speaks.

Amy Cannon - Speech Pathologist at Kids Inspired