Curriculum Corner

Importance of Oral Language in the Early Years

Oral language is the foundation of literacy and learning. When children develop strong speaking and listening skills, they are better equipped to express themselves, understand others, and succeed in reading and writing.  Engaging your child in regular conversations is one of the best ways to develop their oral language skills. Whether you're cooking dinner, walking the dog, or driving to school, use these moments to chat.

Ask open-ended questions like:

“What was the best part of your day?”

“Why do you think that happened?”

“How would you solve that problem?”

These types of questions encourage children to think, explain, and expand their vocabulary. Encourage your child to answer in more than one word answers. 

Reading aloud is one of the most powerful ways to build language. Choose a variety of books—stories, poems, non-fiction—and read with expression. Pause to discuss new words, make predictions, and talk about the characters’ feelings and actions.

Songs and nursery rhymes, and fingerplays help children hear the rhythm and sounds of language. They also support memory and vocabulary development. Don’t worry about being pitch-perfect—your enthusiasm is what matters most!

Imaginative play—like playing shop, school, or superheroes—gives children a chance to use language creatively. Join in and model new words or phrases to enrich their play.

Games like “I Spy,” “20 Questions,” or rhyming challenges are great for building vocabulary and listening skills. You can also make up silly stories together, taking turns to add a sentence.

Trips to the supermarket, park, or even the backyard are full of opportunities to talk. Describe what you see, ask your child to help with tasks, and introduce new words in context.

Parents and caregivers play a vital role in nurturing oral language skills every day and developing these skills will help your child get ahead in their learning.