Communication temptations
How Communication Temptations Spark Early Language
We’re always looking for ways to encourage our little ones to communicate. We model words, ask questions, and wait (and wait… and wait). And while those strategies may help, sometimes it feels like the words just aren’t coming. Here’s the good news: There’s a gentle and playful approach that invites children to communicate without pushing, and it’s called a communication temptation. Many families I work with are surprised to learn that one of the most effective ways to boost language is to set up the right kind of challenge, one that makes communication feel exciting, motivating, and fun.
What Are Communication Temptations?
Communication temptations are simple setups in your daily routines or play that create a reason for your child to communicate, whether that’s by reaching, looking, pointing, vocalizing, signing, or using words. They don’t involve pressure or commands. Instead, they spark curiosity and invite your child to initiate interaction in a way that feels natural and rewarding.
What Might That Look Like?
Offer a snack in a closed container - Hold out your child’s favorite crackers in a clear container they can’t open. Pause. Wait. See if they look at you, reach, hand it to you, or make a sound. That’s a moment for connection and communication.
Put a favorite toy just out of reach - Instead of handing the toy right away, place it on a shelf where they can see it but not grab it. Wait for them to look, point, or come to you. You’re not withholding, you’re inviting them into the moment.
Start a silly song or activity… then pause - Sing “Ring Around the Rosie” and freeze before the “we all fall down!” Wait to see if they look at you expectantly, giggle, or try to prompt you to continue. That anticipation? That’s communication too.
Offer only part of the activity - Give your child the bubbles, but not the wand. Or give them the puzzle, but hold back the pieces. These small “incomplete” setups create natural moments for them to engage with you, without needing to prompt or repeat yourself.
Why It Works
Children are wired to explore, play, connect, & communicate. When we create small challenges or surprises in familiar routines, we activate their natural curiosity and desire to do something about it. Instead of relying on prompts like “Say ‘open’” or “Use your words,” we shift into connection-based communication, and the child leads the way. This is especially powerful for toddlers who are just beginning to use gestures, sounds, or single words. It builds confidence, creates more back-and-forth interaction, and keeps communication fun.
These strategies aren’t about tricking your child or setting them up to fail. They’re about offering opportunities and then respecting how your child chooses to respond. If they look at you instead of talking, that’s progress. If they hand you the container without using a word, that’s communication. We celebrate the attempt, not just the outcome.
Want to Try It at Home?
Here are three quick ways to start using communication temptations today:
Snack Time Switch-Up: Give one item at a time instead of all at once and pause in between.
Silly Surprises: Put toys in funny places (a spoon in the sock drawer!) and wait for your child’s reaction.
Play Pauses: Stop in the middle of a favorite routine, bubbles, songs, tickles, and give them space to ask for more.
When we focus less on getting our child to talk and more on creating moments they want to talk, everything shifts. You’ll start to notice more gestures, more shared smiles and eventually, more words.
Looking for personalized support?
At Meaningful Connections Pediatrics, I help parents turn everyday routines into playful opportunities for growth. Whether your child is using a few words or not speaking at all yet, we’ll meet them right where they are and build from there. Book your free phone consultation today!
