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Speech, Language and Hearing
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Language

Words and concepts

Your child will tend to learn words that are important to them. Many of the words they learn will belong to common groups or will be related to common concepts (the ideas that the words stand for). For ​example, the words “want”, “more”, and “mine” are all related to the concept of asking for something. By responding to your child’s words, you’re showing them that they can use words to tell you what they want or need.

Your child will need to learn many different types of words to build their vocabulary.

​​​​​Early words and concepts

Below are some examples of the first words your child may learn and the category or concept they relate to.

Categories and concepts Related words
Safety stop, no, move, ow
Getting someone's attention look, help, oh oh
Asking for something want, more, mine, all gone
Names me, mommy, daddy
Social okay, hi, bye, my turn
Locations up, in, on
Actions eat, go, play
Emotions (or Feelings) happy, mad, sleepy
Toys  ball, dolly, truck
Food cookie, milk, juice
Clothing shoes, hat, pants
Describing things big, hot, yucky
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Where to go get help

For more information about how speech-language pathologists and audiologists can help, contact:

  • Your doctor, public health nurse, or other health provider
  • Your local health centre
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Current as of: February 1, 2021
Author: Allied Health, Speech, Language, Hearing and Audiology, Alberta Health Services

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This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.

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