How To Improve Pronunciation
Between the ages of two and six, an explosion occurs in a child’s vocabulary. And, in some cases, it can cause some problems when it comes to pronunciation. Therefore, we want to offer some advice on how to improve your child’s pronunciation.
We should accompany and facilitate communication as much as possible when children begin to develop language. By doing this, we will prevent, or at least minimize, this kind of problem. With that in mind, the following article will tell you what to do – and what not to do – when it comes to pronunciation issues.
How to improve pronunciation?
When children begin the process of acquiring language, some may exhibit a variety of problems. For example, they may stall, start stammering, have difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, etc. And, all of these problems keep them from speaking with ease. Many parents are unsure of how to react in these cases. Therefore, we want to offer some advice.
It is important to be consistent and maintain the following suggestions over time, both at home and at school. Gradually, the little ones will modify their language according to what they see and hear in their environment. And, since educators spend a lot of time with our children, it is important that parents and educators work in the same direction.
Tips to improve pronunciation in children
- Enables children to express the thoughts they have without interrupting them.
- Pay attention to what children say, instead of just focusing on how they say it.
- You do not have to worry about the way children talk. When children notice that their parents are worried, they can immediately sense that something is wrong.
- Keep in touch when children talk to you.
- Do not try to express what children are saying by completing their sentences for them. Instead, let them express themselves in their own words.
- When children have finished speaking, respond slowly and clearly. Use some of the terms they used to explain their thoughts.
- If you are doing something that requires concentration and you cannot look at your child, let him or her know. Tell your child that you are still listening and paying attention even though you cannot look right now.
What not to do to improve pronunciation
There are many things you can do to help minimize pronunciation problems in children. But, now we want to take a look at some of the things you should not do.
You do not have to complete their sentences for them
Never try to guess what children are going to say, or complete their sentences for them. If you do, you will only make them less willing to talk to you.
Do not interrupt them while they are talking
You have to wait, it’s your turn, and allow children to finish what they say. That way, when they’re done expressing themselves, it’s your turn to speak. It is important to work on this and be a good example for your child. Children have less self-control than adults, and they need to learn to be patient and respectful when other people talk.
You do not have to correct them all the time
You need to make sure that you do not criticize the way children speak or the way they pronounce certain words or sounds. If you do this, they will only become more aware of their own problems and get stuck when it is time to pronounce the words and sounds that are difficult for them.
Do not rush children when they express their thoughts
Many times, without realizing it, we send the message to our children that we are becoming impatient, to make them stop talking. We can do this without speaking, through our facial expressions and body language. So, we have to be careful – not just with what we say, but also with our signs.
Do not constantly push children to speak quickly and clearly
All children are different and have their own pace. Therefore, every child needs time to organize his or her ideas and express them. If you force children to speak fast, they will stop and get stuck in their own words and what they are trying to say.
Do not talk too fast
If you want your child to speak more slowly and accurately, do not use a fast pace when talking to him or her. As we have mentioned, parents are role models when it comes to language and speech. So, children will try to imitate the way you speak.
Do not force children to speak loudly in front of friends, family, neighbors, etc.
If your child has problems with his or her pronunciation, do not force him or her to read or express his or her thoughts in front of other people. If you do this, you will simply end up amplifying the problem and your child will become even more self-aware about his or her problem.
Concluding thoughts according to improve pronunciation
These are some of the things you should keep in mind when it comes to improving pronunciation in children. However, if the problem persists or you do not notice any improvement, do not hesitate to seek the assistance of a professional. He or she will be able to perform a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary.
