Toddlers and Communication
Parenting a toddler is full of joy, surprises, and challenges, and one of the most significant hurdles many parents face is communication. Sarah, a mother of a 20-month-old, knows this all too well. At this age, toddlers are beginning to grasp and use words, but their ability to fully express thoughts, needs, or problems is still developing. This often leads to frustration for both the child and the parent.
Sarah’s son, like many toddlers, knows several words. While this is a positive step toward communication, it can also be a source of confusion. He might use a word that, in his mind, has multiple meanings, leaving Sarah to decipher what he really wants. For example, he might use a word that, in his mind, has multiple meanings, leaving Sarah to decipher what he really wants. “Food!” He shouts at the dinner table, pointing his fork in the direction of several different dishes; when Sarah offers him one choice, he grows frustrated and again says “food!” Until she selects the correct item. This gap in understanding can result in misunderstandings and frustration on both sides.
To help his mother understand, Sarah’s son often resorts to non-verbal communication. He might hold her hand and lead her to what he wants, point at objects, or use other gestures. All the while, he repeats the word—sometimes loudly—over and over again. This can be overwhelming, but it’s his way of trying to communicate effectively.
Understanding Toddler Communication
At around 18-24 months, toddlers experience a language explosion, where they rapidly learn new words and phrases. However, their ability to form complex sentences or explain what they’re thinking is still in progress. This can lead to a lot of “guessing games” for parents.
Why It’s Challenging:
Limited Vocabulary: Toddlers have a limited number of words to express themselves. They might use the same word for different situations, leading to confusion.
Frustration: When toddlers feel misunderstood, they can become frustrated, leading to tantrums or heightened emotions.
Repetition: Repeating the same word or phrase is their way of emphasizing their need or thought, even if it’s not clear to the parent.
Tips for Easing Communication Frustrations
While this stage can be challenging, there are ways to make communication smoother for both you and your toddler:
Patience is Key:
Take a deep breath and stay calm. Your toddler is not trying to frustrate you; they’re just trying to be understood. Showing patience can help reduce stress for both of you.
Follow Their Lead:
If your toddler is pulling you toward something, follow them. They might be leading you to what they’re trying to communicate. Observing their non-verbal cues like pointing, facial expressions, or body movements can give you context.
Encourage Gestures:
Encourage your child to use gestures along with words. Teaching them simple signs or encouraging them to point can bridge the communication gap.
Expand Their Vocabulary:
Whenever possible, gently expand on what your toddler says. If they say “milk,” you might respond with, “You want milk? Would you like it in your cup?” This helps them learn more words and phrases.
Positive Reinforcement:
Celebrate their attempts to communicate, even if you don’t fully understand. Positive reinforcement will encourage them to keep trying and reduce their frustration.
Practice Patience with Yourself:
It’s normal to feel frustrated when communication is difficult. Give yourself grace, and remember that this stage will pass as your child’s language skills improve.
Building a Foundation of Understanding
Sarah’s experience is a reminder that while the communication gap with toddlers can be challenging, it’s also an opportunity to build a strong foundation of understanding and trust. By staying calm, following your child’s lead, and using strategies to enhance communication, you can make this stage a little easier for both of you. Remember, your efforts to understand and connect with your toddler will encourage them to be patient and cooperative, fostering a positive environment for learning and growth.
