5 Ways to Build Toddler Communication Skills Through Routine
Easy, Effective Ways To Teach Language During The Moments You’re Already Sharing
You’re making breakfast with one hand, chasing a toddler with the other, and mentally running through a to-do list that’s a mile long. Sound familiar?
Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, a working parent, or somewhere in between, you’ve probably felt the tension. I should be doing more for my toddler’s development. Maybe you’ve searched for activities online, only to feel unsure by all the options... or you closed the tab altogether because it was just too much.
What if we put an end to that pressure. You already have everything you need in your everyday routines.
Today, we’re sharing five simple, playful ways to boost your toddler’s communication skills during the moments you’re already living. These strategies are easy to use again and again. No extra prep. No added stress.
A Fresh Way to See What You’re Already Doing
You don’t need to add more to your day.
You just need a fresh way of seeing the moments you already have.
You don’t necessarily need to carve out extra time for intentional play either. You can incorporate language and connection into the rhythms that are already part of your life.
Toddlers learn best through repetition. And your daily routines like getting dressed, snack time, bath time, and running errands are packed with built-in practice. They’re also safe, predictable and fun.
When you start seeing these everyday moments as opportunities for communication, you’ll be amazed at how much learning is already happening, just by being present.
5 Everyday Ways to Build Communication Skills
1. Playtime Pause
Model the Words They Need
If a toy is out of reach or needs to be opened, pause before immediately helping. Give your toddler a chance to communicate through a word, sign, or gesture.
If they don't, model the language they need.
For younger toddlers, use a single word ("open").
For older toddlers, model a simple phrase ("open the box").
Meeting your child at their level helps them take the next step in their communication development.
2. Clean-Up Talk
Build Vocabulary While Tidying
When it’s time to clean up, make it a language-rich moment.
With younger toddlers, say goodbye to each toy. ("Bye car! Bye blocks!")
With older toddlers, sort by category. ("Find all the animals!" "Put all the food in the basket.")
Talking about what you're putting away ("You found the strawberry. It's a fruit!") sneaks in vocabulary, thinking skills, and sorting.
3. Verbal Routines
Turn Repetition into Learning
A verbal routine is a predictable phrase you say the same way every time in a certain situation. This might sound silly, but it’s kind of like having a theme song for daily moments!
For example, every time you’re walking down the stairs, use simple phrases like "Down, down, down!" as you walk downstairs.
Every time you go to wash your hands, narrate the steps. "First we get our hands wet. Now soap! Rub, rub, rub..."
Hearing the same words linked to the same actions helps toddlers connect language to life. And soon, they'll start joining in with you!
4. Car Time Games
Build Words on the Go
Even short rides can become language-building adventures.
Name what you see with younger toddlers: "I see a truck! I see a tree!"
With older toddlers, try simple guessing games like "I live on a farm. I say moo. Who am I?"
When we turn waiting time into playful learning time, it helps new words stick. It also keeps little minds engaged.
5. Bedtime Stories
More Than Just Reading
Bedtime is often sweet, chaotic, or a mix of both, but reading together builds critical language skills no matter what. Here are a few ideas you can try today!
Let your toddler pick the book or choose between two.
Younger toddlers: label pictures and describe actions. ("Look! The dog is running!")
Older toddlers: ask open-ended questions. ("Why do you think he’s sad? What might happen next?")
Sharing stories, even for a few minutes a night, strengthens comprehension, conversation skills, and your bond.
Don't Overcomplicate It
When life feels overwhelming, lean on your routines.
They’re already happening.
They’re already enough.
Once you start noticing the little moments like the car rides, the cleanups, and the bedtime snuggles, you’ll realize just how much learning is happening through the simple rhythms of your day.
You’re not behind.
You’re not missing anything.
You’re building your toddler’s communication skills in ways that matter.
You’re doing a great job.
Let’s keep going, together.
If you like the idea of using daily routines to build your toddler’s communication skills, then you’ll appreciate our Daily Routine Guide. It’s only $10, about the cost of a coffee run or a kids’ book, but it’s filled with simple, effective ways to build your toddler’s communication skills during the moments you’re already sharing.
PS. If you’re a paid subscriber to our Monthly Play Date, we’ve put together a Summer Splash Guide and voice memo for you. It’s a small collection of easy water play activities along with some simple summer tips.
We hope it gives you a few fresh ideas, a little extra encouragement, and a simple way to keep building your child’s communication skills this summer.
We can’t wait to share.
With you,
Brooke and Christin
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Love this perspective! Anything we do during our day can be a teachable moment if we have that intention 🙌🏻❤️