Supporting Your Toddler’s Language Development in the Bathtub

Enrichment Therapies

January 20, 2025

mother watches toddler play in the bathtub

As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I often emphasize that everyday activities can be fantastic opportunities for language development. Bath time is no exception! Here are some simple and effective strategies to support your toddler’s language skills while they splash and play in the tub.

Descriptive Language 

Use rich, descriptive language to narrate what’s happening during bath time. Describe the water, the toys, and the actions. For example:

  • “Look at the bubbly water!”
  • “Can you see the blue boat floating?”

 This expands their vocabulary and helps them make connections between words and their meanings.

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Encourage your child to think and express themselves by asking open-ended questions. For instance:

  • “What do you think will happen if we pour the water on the duck?”
  • “How does the sponge feel when it’s wet?” 

These questions prompt your child to engage in conversation and think creatively.

Songs and Rhymes

Incorporate songs and rhymes related to bath time. Singing familiar songs can enhance language rhythm and memory. You can adapt classic songs, like:

  • “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” to “Wash, Wash, Wash Your Hands.”

Repeating phrases helps reinforce language patterns.

Turn Bath Time Into Story Time

Bring waterproof books into the tub! Reading stories about bath time adventures can captivate your child’s attention while introducing new vocabulary. Encourage them to point to pictures and describe what they see.

Label and Expand

As your child plays, label the toys and activities. If they say, “boat,” you can expand by saying, “Yes, that’s a big red boat!” This technique helps them learn new words and encourages longer utterances.

Modeling and Repetition

Children learn through imitation. Model language by repeating words and phrases. If they say “bubble,” you can respond with, “Yes, look at all the bubbles! Pop, pop, the bubbles!”

Encourage Imaginative Play

Use bath toys to inspire imaginative play. You might say, “I wonder what the duck wants to do today.” This not only fosters creativity but also encourages storytelling and dialogue.

Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center Supports Language Development in Des Moines and North Liberty

Bathtime is a wonderful opportunity to nurture your child’s language skills in a fun and engaging way. By incorporating these strategies, you’ll enhance their vocabulary and strengthen your bond during this playful routine. If you wonder if your child could use additional language support, our team of specialists can help your child’s language skills grow!

Contact our Des Moines or North Liberty office to begin the path to language support today!

info@enrichmenttherapies.com

740 Community Drive, Unit A

North Liberty, IA 52317

319-626-2553

 infodm@enrichmenttherapies.com

5530 West Pkwy, Suite 300

Johnston, IA 50131

515-419-4270

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