Does is feel like sometimes you are just working way too hard for play? Agreed. I still catch myself wanting to play with things the “right” way more so with my toddler than the little one but still, it happens.
Try just embracing whatever happens. Cars can be drum sticks, wooden people and animals are hats. Honestly, it doesn’t matter what you guys do with those wonderful toys. The engagement is far more important.
As far as the language goes, keep it simple! If those cars are banging, say “bang bang bang.” If the animals don’t make very good hats and keep falling down, say “oh no! Down!” …..and repeat, repeat, repeat (until you are both bored of that).
Work with what they give you and don’t over think it. Enjoy the nonsense!
I am a speech-language pathologist and I specialize in early intervention. I obtained my Masters degree from Penn State University and my Doctorate Degree from Rocky Mountain University of Healthcare Professions. I have worked in a variety of setting but most of my experience is working with preschool aged children. I thought I knew so much about that age and younger until I had my own children! I'm a proud mother of two wonderful boys and while they can be a challenge at times, they help me develop new skills and new ways to approach language development in a functional and motivating way I would never have truly grasped without them.
I started this blog in an effort to share and support others while their little ones are growing and learning and also to support my fellow SLPs. I hope you find my posts helpful. My goal is to provide practical ideas and suggestions because I know first hand that setting out to do anything that isn't functional or motivating for you and your children won't give you the results or satisfaction we all hope to obtain while working with our little ones.
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