Declarative Language: A Happier Alternative to Questions and Directives

Especially useful for GLPs and late talkers, declarative language offers a gentler approach to communication by *inviting children to act* as opposed to pressuring them to respond in a particular or expected way. 

Whereas questions and directives are a means to an end, declarative statements actually increase independence by giving the child the space they need to notice what’s happening in their environment, process what has been said to them, and then respond with their own thoughts and ideas.

In other words, declarative language helps to create space for connection and is a fantastic tool for child-led play. 

Here are some examples of declarative statements from Meaningful Speech:

• That's a beautiful picture.
• I'm so thirsty.
• We're doing it!
• The moon's out.
• I wonder if there's a different way…
• I'm thinking about a snack.
• That's really fast.

by Halle Demchuk, SLP

Paediatric SLP | GLP-Trained Clinician | Owner of HAEPI SLP