Last week a mom approached me for my opinion on whether her 2 year 3-month old daughter was on track with her language. I could understand some of what little Charlotte said and she was using 2-3 word sentences. I have seen her play creatively and make her wants and needs known. Mom was asking because Charlotte’s preschool had scheduled a conference to discuss her language. They gave mom a full page chart of when sounds typically developed by age (with check marks next to sounds Charlotte uses) and three “language samples” of what she said, one taken each of the last three months.
Now as a therapist I am thrilled that preschool teachers are tuned into their students’ speech and language development, but this is at one end of the continuum–very detailed and observant of a child’s speech and language skills.
Many parents are choosing preschools right now for next year and are evaluating what is the best fit for their child. Ask the teacher what kind of written feedback you can expect on your child’s activities and learning. Some classes have a note outside the door each day with what activities they did and how the class responded. This gives you a point to start talking to your child about her day and keeps you informed. Other teachers might give you a weekly note, outlining what themes and activities they will be doing. It is always better to know ahead so you can be reinforcing those concepts (talking about spring, buds, flowers etc.) while you child is experiencing it at nursery school.
