Thursday, June 25, 2009

Baby Talk

I'm nearly certain I've posted about this before, so I apologize for the repetition.

As some of you know (and others will know once the pictures post next week), we went camping last weekend. Over all it was a huge success.

But, in spending a couple of days with Nana and Grandpa, it became apparent to me that we really do not talk to Ellie using baby talk. Sure, we change the tone of our voice to adapt to her, but the words themselves are grown-up words. The grammar itself is grown-up grammar (at least to the best of my ability... lol).

Both of the grandparents (and I'm sure they're not alone in this) had the habit of repeating Ellie's cute, but incorrect way of saying things. It's great that they understand her and it's great that they engage her.

I'm just saying that I definitely noticed that when Daddy or I talk to her, we confirm what she wants by using correct words and grammar. Not everyone does this.

I wonder if that's why she does, and always has, spoken so well. I wonder if many parents, without really thinking about it, just confirm incorrect words when they repeat what their kids say.

2 comments:

spleeness said...

I've wondered about this too. I just met a new friend's four-year-old and was astounded by their sophisticated language skills. The parents confessed they'd never been one for baby talk and I think it does make a difference.

Nami said...

Even I have a hard time not repeating what she says. She's adorable! But I can see the benefit in her speech from the way you talk to her.