Listening walks
1–2 yearsFamily ConnectionNo materials needed
Take short walks and point out sounds you hear together. Say listen and pause. Then name the sound like bird, car, or dog. Wait to see if your child points toward the sound or tries to repeat the word you said.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Take short walks and point out sounds you hear together. Say listen and pause. Then name the sound like bird, car, or dog. Wait to see if your child points toward the sound or tries to repeat the word you said.
Why It Works
Listening walks create natural opportunities for shared attention and conversational exchanges, which research identifies as more important than word quantity for language development (Hirsh-Pasek et al., 2015). By pausing to listen together and naming what you hear, you model active listening and demonstrate that communication involves both speaking and paying attention. These skills form the foundation for the open, attentive communication patterns that strengthen parent-child relationships across the lifespan (Hartos & Power, 2000).
Tips for Parents
Stop frequently to listen. Your child's attention span is short at this age.
Point in the direction of sounds. This helps your child connect the word to what they hear.
Respond to any sounds your child makes. They may be trying to imitate what they heard.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Language-Rich EnvironmentImitation and Modeling
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