Does being able to answer “What is this?” tell us enough about a child’s language development?

Many parents show their child a picture and ask:

“What is this?”
The child answers, “Shark.”

“What is this?”
The child answers, “Shoe.”

Being able to name an object shows that the child can recognise, remember and respond to a familiar question. This is an important skill, but it does not give us the full picture of how well the child understands and uses language.

We can observe further by asking:

“Where does a shark live?”
“What can a shark do?”

Can the child tell us:

“A shark lives in the ocean.”
“A shark can swim.”

When the child sees a shoe, can they say more than just “shoe”?

“I want to wear my shoes.”
“These are Mummy’s shoes.”
“I cannot find my shoes.”

These responses show that the child is not only remembering the name of an object. The child understands its purpose, connects it to everyday experiences and uses language to express an idea.

Parents do not need to keep testing their child. Instead of asking only, “What is this?”, try extending the conversation naturally:

• What can it do?
• Where can we find it?
• What do we use it for?
• What might happen next?
• Can you tell me more about it?

The questions should not be too difficult, and the child does not need to answer in a complete sentence immediately. Begin with what the child can already say, then model and expand the sentence gradually:

“Shark.”
“A shark can swim.”
“A shark can swim in the ocean.”

At Lullabee, we do not only observe how many words a child knows. We also look at whether the child can understand questions, describe what they see, connect ideas and use language meaningfully in everyday life.

Naming an object is the beginning of language learning.
Using language meaningfully helps others truly understand the child.

If your child can recite numbers, colours and the names of objects but rarely uses language to express needs, describe an experience or take part in a simple conversation, you may speak with our team to understand more about your child’s current communication and learning abilities.

📍 Lullabee Baby & Childcare Centre
3G, Wisma Ambawang, Jalan Anggor, Old Klang Road

📍 Learning Bee Baby & Childcare / Kindergarten
16, Jalan Kenari 1, Bandar Puchong Jaya

📍 Learning Bee Therapy Centre
Speech Therapy | Occupational Therapy | Early Intervention Programme
16-1, Jalan Kenari 1, Bandar Puchong Jaya

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