Domain: NC Foundations for Early Learning: Language Development and Communication (LDC)

Subdomain: Learning to Communicate

Goal: Children understand communications from others.

Skill Progression: Understand communication from others

Age: 21-24 Months

Click here to go to all skills for ages 21-24 Months.

Observe the child in daily routines or in play with the adult. Watch eye gaze and gestures, and listen to the words used.

No elicitation needed.

The child responds to the adult’s use of action words appropriately (e.g., “It’s time to eat.” The child looks at or goes to the kitchen. “Let’s play.” The child goes to the toys. “Let’s read.” The child looks at or goes to the books.)

Children now understand that things have names. They are learning new words each day. Early childhood educators and parents can now emphasize action words when reading books or talking to children about what is happening in the environment. For instance, instead of emphasizing “doggie,” when he sees a dog, the adult can say, “The doggie is barking.”