Modeling

No, I don't mean smiling pretty for the camera.  I mean modeling correct speech, language, and behavior.  We all learn from people around us everyday.  We watch and listen to others and pick up on their mannerisms, phrases, and vocabulary.  When speaking with children it is very important that we model correct grammar, sounds, and pragmatics. 

• When children are targeting a particular sound in speech (let's say /b/) we need to draw their attention to the correct production of the target.  When speaking to them we may say things like, "I see that you have blue buttons."  and "Let's blow bubbles."  In these sentences you can emphasize the /b/ "blue", "buttons", "blow" and both /b/ sounds in "bubbles".  Hearing and recognizing good models helps them know what the /b/ should sound like when they make it.  Focus on one (possibly two ex: /s/ and /z/) sounds at a time.  You do not want to overwhelm them.

• When children are learning to use words, phrases, and sentences it is important to model correct language but at a level that is only a step or two above their current level of function.  For example, if a child is only using gestures and an occasional word then you don't want to model speaking in paragraphs but rather model one and two word phrases.  If they are using 2-3 word sentences model 3-4 word sentences.  Keep it basic.  If you get too far beyond their current capabilities they will be unlikely to mimic the model. 

• When you are working on a particular part of speech or attribute use them in short concise phrases and sentences. This allows the focus to remain on the word that you want to target. 
• Verbs or Pronouns:  "She ran.", "I jump.", "They play."  
• Colors:  "Blue car.", "Red shirt", "a pink block"
•  Big/Little:  "Big cow", "Little apple"

• When modeling pragmatic skills be sure to say "thank you", "your welcome", and "please to the person you are working with.  If you want them to ask social questions and make appropriate responses you can do it first.  Ask, "How was your day?"  Wait for a response, then prompt them to ask you the same question.