What really matters- Weather Events as Vocabulary Builders- Dramatic weather always creates a great opportunity for authentic vocabulary building. During a snow storm, I noticed and encouraged Whitney’s high interest in what was going on outside. (see video to right). We always want to take advantage of what our toddlers are interested in to build vocabulary around that interest and that context.

How to put it into practice-

Tuning In-

Pick up on what your toddler notices about what is going on outside and pounce on that interest when you see it. It is always fine to model your interest in a rain storm, snow storm or even a beautiful sunny day. Take them over to a window and see if they pick up on your expressed interest. Here Whitney gave me a layup by pointing, saying “snow” and even making the sign to tell me she wanted to go out. (see video “Snow Storm Interest”). Since I had 10 minutes, I jumped on it and took her out to explore the snow right then and there.

Extending/Bridging-

Whitney was more excited about the idea of going outside to explore the snow then she was once she got out there. The cold air and the deep powder was all alittle overwhelming for her. But we at least got alittle exploration of the snow and words that go with it. (see video: Snow Exploration Outside #1 & #2). I tried to come up with words relevant to our snow adventure such as “cold” and the need for her “hat”, “coat” and “boots”. In video #2, I pointed out the “tracks” she was making. But even all her attire could not keep her comfortable so we quickly came back inside but our snow exploration and vocabulary building easily continued in this warmer climate. (see video Snow Exploration Inside).

The whole point is to take advantage of those teachable moments when our toddlers express and interest in something to try some rich contextual conversation about it. Don’t worry if your toddler does not repeat everything. At this stage, receptive language always far outpaces expressive language so keep that vocabulary building coming.