(In partnership with Africa Dyslexia Organisation)
When it comes to building strong reading skills, vocabulary plays a crucial role. Vocabulary refers to knowing the meaning of words and understanding how to use them effectively. It is a prerequisite for comprehension—without understanding words, a child cannot grasp the meaning of what they read.
One of the best ways to develop a child’s vocabulary is through natural conversation. Speaking to children as you would to any adult helps them absorb new words effortlessly. Children learn by imitation, so when parents and educators use expressive and diverse vocabulary, they create a rich linguistic environment that fosters learning.
Another effective method is prompting. Since children are naturally curious, they often ask about unfamiliar words. Instead of immediately providing definitions, turn the question back to them: “What do you think this word means?” This encourages critical thinking, builds confidence, and reinforces learning through active engagement.
Introducing new words regularly, whether simple like beautiful or more complex like gigantic, strengthens a child’s ability to express themselves clearly. More than just memorizing definitions, vocabulary development ensures they can use words meaningfully in sentences, conversations, and written expression.
By prioritizing vocabulary as a key pillar of reading, we empower children to become fluent, confident readers who can fully engage with the world of books and beyond.
