Supporting Communication Before Words: Preverbal Skills in Infants and Toddlers

Communication begins long before a child says their first word. For infants and toddlers, connection, interaction, and shared experiences lay the foundation for language development. At The Village, we support families with young children by focusing on the early communication skills that come before words, often called preverbal skills.

Preverbal skills are the building blocks of speech and language. These skills develop naturally through everyday interactions and playful moments between children and caregivers. When preverbal skills are supported early, children are better prepared to use words, gestures, and sentences as they grow.

One important preverbal skill is shared attention. This happens when a child and caregiver focus on the same object, toy, or activity together. For example, when a toddler looks at a toy and then looks back at a parent, they are learning that communication is a shared experience. Shared attention helps children understand that communication involves back and forth connection.

Gestures also play a major role in early communication. Pointing, reaching, waving, and showing objects are powerful ways young children express needs and interests before they have words. When caregivers respond to gestures with words and warmth, children begin to connect meaning with language.

Imitation is another important preverbal skill. Babies and toddlers learn by copying sounds, facial expressions, movements, and actions during play. When a child imitates a sound or action, they are practicing coordination, attention, and early communication patterns that support speech development.

Turn taking is a preverbal skill that often goes unnoticed but is essential for conversation. This may look like a baby babbling and waiting for a caregiver to respond, or a toddler rolling a ball back and forth. These early exchanges teach children the rhythm of communication and help prepare them for spoken conversations later on.

Our work with infants and toddlers is play-based and child-led. Sessions often involve floor play, songs, movement, and everyday routines that feel familiar and safe. We follow each child’s lead, responding to their interests and cues while modeling language and supporting early communication skills in a natural way.

Parents and caregivers are an essential part of early communication development. Simple moments like diaper changes, feeding, bath time, and playtime offer rich opportunities to support preverbal skills. We work closely with families to share strategies that fit naturally into daily routines and feel manageable and meaningful.

If you have a young child and are wondering about communication development, you do not need to wait for words to seek support. Early guidance can help strengthen the foundation for language while honoring your child’s individual pace and personality. Our team is here to support infants, toddlers, and families through connection, play, and thoughtful early intervention.