Story retelling together
2–3 yearsFamily ConnectionMaterials: A favorite book
After reading a book together, ask your child to tell you what happened in the story. Use open-ended questions like 'What did you like best?' or 'What happened next?' Let them lead the retelling while you listen and ask follow-up questions.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
After reading a book together, ask your child to tell you what happened in the story. Use open-ended questions like 'What did you like best?' or 'What happened next?' Let them lead the retelling while you listen and ask follow-up questions.
Why It Works
Open-ended questions and extended conversations during this language explosion period directly predict later language abilities. Quality interactions with shared attention are more important than quantity of words (Hirsh-Pasek et al., 2015). This practice also builds the communication skills that correlate with higher relationship satisfaction later in life (Hartos & Power, 2000).
Tips for Parents
Ask questions that need more than yes or no answers.
Expand on what they say: 'Yes, the bear was big. What else was big?'
Be patient with pauses. Your child is thinking and forming thoughts.
Materials Needed
A favorite book
Learning Methods
Songs, Stories, and RhymesSymbolic and Pretend PlaySocial Learning Through Peers
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