I’ve shared how monthly language calendars are a great tool for therapists working with early communicators.

Today I’m going to expand on ideas for using the Level 2 Language Calendar with children beginning to use their first words.

Topics include:

signs and first words
first words and early songs
recording first words

Sign Language For Verbal Language Development

Why are there signs if we’re working on saying words?

Some parents feel teaching signs to their child will slow their progress in speaking. However, research has shown that teaching early signs can support verbal language development.

Did you know that if a child is spontaneously using a sign to communicate, it counts as a first word?!

Each monthly calendar includes three to four visuals of common first word signs in American Sign Language. These selected words are embedded in several of the daily activities. They include a variety of types of words:

nouns like “milk” and “ball”
verbs like “eat” and “go”
prepositions such as “in” and “down”
and social words like “hi” and “bye”

Caregivers are encouraged to modify the vocabulary or activities to meet their families' individual goals.

Monthly Songs to Support First Words

Singing is a great way to practice early words. Every month features at least one familiar children’s song.

Early songs are great for language development:

repetition of words
rhyming
hand gestures and physical movement
high engagement

Use the Calendars to Track Progress

Therapists track the progress of words to measure the growth of expressive language. Caregivers may find it motivating to track progress too. The notes section on the calendar is a great place to record this data.