Did you know that new studies have shown that children and teens with greater conversational abilities demonstrate more skill in reading and spelling? Also, younger children with greater conversational abilities show less risk of struggling with literacy as they go to school. This is why having conversations with my students is an important part of my lessons, whether we discuss their school day, their likes and dislikes, or anything else. Outside of lessons, I will even ask students to have a conversation with a family member about a particular topic for an extra reward if they tell me about it at the next lesson. I generally notice a huge difference in my student's ability to converse within a few months of lessons, and sometimes even within a few weeks!
Parents and caregivers can support their children by engaging them in conversation during car rides, walks, meal times, and more! Not only will this support their conversation skills and social development, but it will also support their literacy development. Even if it feels like pulling teeth to get your kids to talk about their day, if you persevere they will be talking your ear off in no time!
One of my favorite parts of my job is when my students come to lessons with a story or opinion from their week that they just can't wait to tell me. I love that they know I’m interested in what they think!
