How Love2Learn supports communication from babbles to big feels
Language development in the early years is one of the most exciting—and important—parts of a child’s growth. Between 12 and 36 months, children go from babbling simple sounds to expressing complex needs, telling stories, and engaging in conversations. It doesn’t happen overnight—but at Love2Learn, we build the foundation for strong communication every single day.
Whether your child is just starting to use a few words or already chatting up a storm, our experienced teachers know how to meet them where they are and keep them growing.
Why Language Development in the Toddler Years Matters
Children’s brains are primed for learning language between the ages of 1 and 3. Every time a child hears words, gestures, or facial expressions, their brain is making connections that will eventually support:
- Reading and writing
- Social-emotional skills
- Attention span and memory
- Academic learning
- Self-regulation and problem-solving
In short: language builds the brain. And that’s why we embed rich, responsive communication into every part of the day—especially in our new 12–24 month and 2–3 year-old classrooms.
What Language Development Looks Like from 12–36 Months
Between 12–18 Months
- Understands simple words like “bye-bye” and “milk”
- Points to show interest
- Imitates animal sounds or environmental noises
- Says 5–10 single words
- Responds to their name
- Uses gestures and sounds to communicate wants
Between 18–24 Months
- Has a vocabulary of 50+ words
- Begins putting 2 words together (e.g., “more juice”)
- Follows simple directions
- Names familiar people or objects
- Enjoys songs and pointing to pictures in books
Between 24–36 Months
- Speaks in short sentences (3–4 words)
- Asks and answers simple questions
- Begins using pronouns (me, mine, you)
- Enjoys pretend play with dialogue
- Understands concepts like big/little, up/down, more/all done
How Love2Learn Teachers Support Language Growth
Our staff is trained to meet children at their developmental level and scaffold new skills through daily interactions. Here are just a few of the ways we foster language development in both structured and unstructured settings:
1. Narrating the Day
We talk through routines in real time:
“Now we’re washing our hands with warm water and soap. Rub, rub, rub!”
This gives children constant exposure to sentence structure, new vocabulary, and context.
2. Expanding on What Children Say
If a child says “car,” we respond with “Yes, that’s a red car—it’s going fast!”
This technique models how to grow simple words into fuller sentences.
3. Using Songs, Rhymes, and Repetition
Songs like The Itsy Bitsy Spider or Old MacDonald build memory and sentence fluency.
Repetition builds comfort, confidence, and retrieval skills.
4. Reading Aloud Multiple Times a Day
We read age-appropriate books with repetition, rhyme, and rich illustrations.
Even our toddlers enjoy group story time—and begin to anticipate words and actions.
5. Following the Child’s Lead
Whether a child wants to talk about trucks or apples, we engage with their interests to build conversation and connection.
Tips for Parents: How to Support Language at Home
You don’t need flashcards or apps—just intentional, responsive time. Try:
- Talk about what you’re doing: “I’m pouring the milk into your cup.”
- Name emotions: “You’re feeling sad because the toy broke.”
- Give choices: “Do you want the red cup or the blue one?”
- Pause after asking questions to let your child process and respond
- Repeat and expand: If they say “dog,” respond with “Yes, a big brown dog is barking!”
And remember—every child develops at their own pace. The best thing you can do is connect, talk, and listen consistently.
Come Talk With Us!
Our new 12–24 month room and 2–3 year-old transition classroom are thoughtfully designed to support strong communication from day one. With warm teachers, small groups, and language-rich environments, we help each child grow their voice—one word at a time.
Located in Mechanicsburg, PA
Accepting children ages 1–5 | CCW subsidy accepted
Call (717) 553.0000 or visit www.love2learn.school to schedule a tour
References & Further Reading
- Zero to Three. (2023). 12–36 Month Language Development. https://www.zerotothree.org
- ASHA (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association). (2022). Milestones for Toddlers. https://www.asha.org
- NAEYC. (2019). Supporting Language Growth in Early Childhood. https://www.naeyc.org
CDC. (2023). Learn the Signs: Language Milestones. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html
Read: What Does School Readiness Really Mean for Toddlers and Preschoolers?
