The Imitation Hierarchy and Why Your Toddler Still Isn’t Talking

It’s natural to worry if your toddler isn’t talking as much as other kids. But before children start using words, they often need to master other skills first—especially imitation! Imitation is key in learning how to communicate, and there’s a typical order that children follow.

Here’s a quick guide to understanding the process and five simple tips you can try at home to help your child along.

The Imitation Hierarchy

Children usually develop communication by copying actions and gestures, then words come.

• Actions with objects: Before words come, kids learn by copying what you do with objects.

• Communicative gestures: Things like waving or pointing come next.

• Vocalizations and play sounds: Fun sounds like “uh-oh” or “weee!” prepare them for real words.

Let’s explore some simple ways to encourage each stage!

1. Start with Simple Actions

Playing together is a great way to get your child copying actions. Try activities like:

• Rolling a ball back and forth.

• Stacking blocks to build a tower.

• Driving toy cars or moving animals in pretend play.

These activies also build joint attention, turn taking and cause/effect which are key skills needed for speech and language.

2. Use Communicative Gestures

Children also need to be able to imitate and usegestures. These are the first steps toward talking! Try:

• Waving hello or goodbye.

• Pointing to objects they want.

• Clapping after finishing an activity.

Gestures give them a way to communicate before using words.

3. Vocalizations and “Play Sounds”

Next, introduce playful words and sounds into your activities. Try:

• Saying “uh-oh!” when something falls.

• Exclaiming “weee!” during fun movements.

• Using animal sounds like “moo” or “woof”.

Use exaggerated intonation and eye contact when modeling these sounds, this makes it more exciting and fun for your child to imitate.

4. Create Imitation Opportunities

Throughout the day, give your child plenty of chances to imitate you. Whether you’re playing, eating, or running errands, model actions, gestures, and sounds. Give them time to respond without pressure!

5. Be Patient and Celebrate Progress

Every child develops at their own pace. We can’t force our kids to start talking, but if we give them lots of opportunities to imitate gestures, actions and sounds, we are making it easier for them to try!

Kayla Birch is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist who loves helping young children build communication skills. If you’re concerned about your child’s speech development, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Speech-Language Pathologist or your doctor for more tips and guidance.