Are you a fan of the show Friends? Well I am a HUGE fan and could watch that show all day every day. There is one particular episode that I have in mind. The One With The Baby Shower. As Rachel is opening gifts, she was surprised to learn that a diaper genie is for throwing away diapers and not dispensing clean ones. Her mother then reveals how often babies need to be changed throughout the day and Rachel replies, “It goes 10 times a day??”
Does this feel a tad accurate?! Since changing your baby’s diaper is a routine that you’re doing many times throughout the day, it’s another perfect opportunity for language development. So let’s think about why this is a language opportunity.
First, this gives you 1:1 time with your child. Any moment like this becomes a special bonding moment… even if that moment involves a stinky diaper. This routine also allows you to be face to face with your child. This is important because we want your child to see your face as you are communicating with them. Not only will they see how you are moving your mouth to make sounds and words, it also helps build that connection.
Music
Music is always a fun and easy way to engage your child while learning language at the same time. If you missed my blog post about my Top 10 Songs for Late Talkers, be sure to check it out!
After scrolling through instagram I came across an account that I immediately fell in love with. Wee Talkers is an account managed by an SLP named Carly. She makes up her own songs for various activities, and I love this one she has about changing diapers.
Changing diapers (2x)
Lots of fun (2x)
You’re no longer stinky (2x)
Nice clean bum (2x)
sung to the tune of of Frere Jacques
Vocabulary
Another simple way to add language to diaper changes is by simply just talking. Yes, that’s right! Just talking. Parallel and self-talk is a language strategy that allows you to simply narrate what you and your child are doing. Although your child might not imitate you as you do this, you are modeling language associated with the actions and objects surrounding you.
Continue practicing this vocabulary by incorporating it into a joint book reading activity! Check out these potty time books:
Games
Changing your baby’s diaper might not be the most enjoyable routine throughout your day but you can still be silly and have fun! Playing simple games is another way to keep your child engaged and it also encourages interaction.
Imitation: make silly faces, say “ewww!” as you wave your hand in front of your face
Peek-a-boo: take turns covering your faces for a fun game of peek-a-boo
Tickles: keep your child engaged for them to maintain attention and eye contact with you
What does this routine look like for you? Leave a comment below or send a message straight to my inbox!
