Observe the child during free play or centers interacting with other children.
The adult can introduce new vocabulary words that are unfamiliar to the child, but related to the classroom theme of study. For example, the adult sets up the dramatic play to be a beach. She might say, “Oh, look. I see a crustacean on the beach.”
The child asks the meaning of words.
Encourage children to ask questions. Asking questions demonstrates children’s curiosity and areas of interest and also leads to gaining knowledge. Whenever possible help children discover where and how to find the answers for themselves. Asking about others’ feelings builds empathy.
 North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, 2015
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