Why Everyday Words Matter More than Colors and Shapes

As parents, we experience joy when our children learn new words, sing the alphabet, or point of colors and shapes. These feel like BIG milestones - and they are! But when it comes to communication, functional language is more important than academic language.

What is Functional Language?

Functional language is the everyday communication your child uses to get their needs met and to connect with others. Think of words and phrases like:

• More juice
• Help please
• No or Stop
• Play Ball

These are the kinds of words that make daily life smoother for both children and caregivers.

By contrast, academic language includes letters, numbers, colors, and shapes! While it’s cute to hear your toddler count or say circle, those words don’t help them communicate basic needs…like they are hungry or thirsty!

Why Functional Language Come First

Before toddlers and preschoolers can learn about letters and shapes, they need to be able to:

• Express needs and wants (asking for a snack or drink)
• Seek help (telling you a toy is stuck or they can’t open something)
• Interact socially (saying hi/bye, asking to play with a peer, or saying “no”)
• Manage emotions (saying they are “mad” or “sad”)

When children can communicate these functional basics, they feel less frustrated AND more confident. This foundation makes learning academic words much easier later on!

How to Encourage Functional Language

Here are some simple, everyday ways to build your toddler or preschooler’s functional communication skills:

1. Model simple phrases: Say things like “more bubbles,” “put on shoes” and “all done”
2. Offer choices: By asking “Do you want milk or water?” gives your child the opportunity to practice using real words
3. Pause and wait: Give your child time to try using words instead of jumping in
4. Play together: Use pretend play to practice phrases like “my turn,” “open,” or “go”
5. Praise communication: Celebrate when your child uses words, even if they are not perfect

When to Seek Support

If your toddler or preschooler relies on pointing, crying, or gestures instead of words or seems frustrated since they can’t get their message across, it may be time to check in with a speech language pathologist (SLP). Getting early support can make a big difference in helping your child feel understood and more confident.

Final Thoughts

Academic language like colors, numbers, and shapes will come with time. But functional language - the words your child uses everyday to connect, ask, and share - is the true foundation of communication. Helping your child build these skills sets them up for success.