With Thirty Million Words and other early language initiatives making headlines, the message is clear: Talking to young children matters. But how you talk to children makes a big difference—and this friendly, down-to-earth guidebook shows you how to engage with kids in ways that directly support their language skills and overall development.

Developed by celebrated early education expert Betty Bardige, the second edition of this warm and wise book takes you on a fascinating tour through six stages in a child’s language development—starting with baby babbles and ending with kindergarten literacy skills. You’ll get critical new research and updates in every chapter, plus an invaluable toolbox of downloadable resources that help you put the strategies into practice. A must-have for all early childhood professionals and parents, this book is your guide to playful, engaging talk that supercharges young minds and sets the stage for school success.

Discover How To:

learn the language of pretend play and storytelling
include children in conversations—even when they’re too young to talk
respond effectively to the questions children ask and the stories they tell
boost language skills with fun games and activities that build on children’s natural curiosity
select playful, age-appropriate books, songs, and poems to share and enjoy together
engage children of diverse backgrounds and temperaments
explore the language challenges children might encounter and how to help them
help bilingual children develop skills in both languages
create language-rich communities where children’s literacy skills flourish


What’s New:

Strategies based on up-to-date research
expanded focus on developing toddlers’ language skills
new emphasis on supporting children from low-income families
You’ll also get a practical collection of downloadable resources: updated study guides for each chapter and handouts in English and Spanish.


Includes downloadable, printable handouts in English and Spanish:

The Power of Play Talk
Baby Babbles
First Words, First Stories
Off Like a Rocket
What Will They Think of Next?
From Language to Literacy

Foreword by: JoAnne Knapp-Philo