How to Improve Your Child’s Vocabulary: Proven Tips for Every Age

At Primary Tutor Project, we understand that a child's vocabulary development significantly impacts their academic success and future confidence. According to a recent survey of teachers from 800 secondary schools, 4 in 10 pupils enter secondary school with a vocabulary below age expectations. This limitation affects not only their learning but also their ability to express themselves clearly.

The number of words a child learns in the early years directly correlates with future success. A strong vocabulary allows children to better understand instructions, engage with complex ideas, and communicate effectively in both writing and conversation.

Why Vocabulary Matters for Your Child's Learning

A rich vocabulary enhances a child’s ability to:

• Understand what they hear and read
• Express themselves more clearly
• Think critically and creatively
• Engage in academic discussions
• Build confidence in social settings

And the good news? Parents play a vital role in boosting a child's vocabulary. The more you talk, read, and interact with your child using diverse language, the better their word bank becomes.

Early Years: How to Grow a Toddler’s Vocabulary

Children are like sponges in their early years. Immerse them in language from the start. Don’t simplify your words unnecessarily. If they can say Tyrannosaurus Rex, they can learn just about anything!

1. Read Actively

When reading stories together, ask open-ended questions like:

• "Is the dragon scary? Why?”
• "What do you think will happen next?”

Encourage full-sentence answers. Avoid one-word responses and model descriptive language in your own speech, for example, "That huge, rumbling truck is moving very fast!”

2. Describe the World Around You

Narrate your day and describe objects and actions in detail.
 "This crunchy, red apple is very juicy. Would you like a slice?”

Primary Age: Vocabulary Building from School Years Onward

Research shows that a new word needs to be used 6 to 12 times in context for it to become part of a child’s long-term memory. Try these fun and interactive methods:

1. Read Together and Discuss

Reading is still the number one activity. Pause to explain new words and ask questions to check comprehension. Make reading an engaging, shared experience.

2. Play Word Games

Explore synonyms together. Challenge your child:

• "How many words can you find for ‘ugly’?”
• "What’s another word for ‘happy’ or ‘distant’?”

Use dictionaries, thesauruses, or child-friendly vocabulary apps to expand understanding.

3. Act Out Adverbs

Turn vocabulary into physical activity. Try:

• "Can you scamper silently?”
• "Can you smile sweetly?”

Let your child create the actions and challenge you next.

4. Deepen Word Understanding

Discuss the shades of meaning of a word. Example:

• "Is Harry Potter brave?”
• "Was he always brave?”
• "What would the opposite of brave look like?”

These discussions foster critical thinking and vocabulary retention.

5. Use Mealtime as Talk Time

Dinner is a great opportunity to build vocabulary. Talk about your day using descriptive language and encourage your child to do the same. Avoid "I don’t know” answers by asking follow-up questions and giving examples.

Final Tips to Support Vocabulary Growth

• Read daily with your child. Books, articles, menus, signs, anything!
• Encourage full-sentence answers in conversation.
• It’s okay to correct mistakes gently.
• Keep a dictionary or thesaurus handy or use Google together.
• If you're ever unsure about your child’s language development, don't hesitate to ask for help.

Need Help?

If you have any concerns about your child's learning, we’re here to help. Contact us today at Primary Tutor Project. We’re happy to offer guidance and support.