Why Does My Child Repeat Words?

A child’s repetitive speech is a normal part of language development. So, even if you’re hearing your little one repeat words over and over again, it may be testing your patience but they’re doing it to build their skills.

Of course though, if they’re going to be repeating the same words over and over again, you want to make sure they’re the right ones.  Many of us have witnessed a parent cringe with embarrassment when their toddler repeats an inappropriate word in a public place!

It’s good for parents to repeat themselves too.

Research done by The University of Maryland and Harvard University suggested that parents who repeated words more often to their infants had children with better language skills a year and a half later. So while your toddler is learning to speak, mimics to communicate, you as a parent or caregiver can help your baby with their vocabulary development by repeating words to them.

Why does a child repeat words?

But let’s go back to why a child repeats words.

The scientific term for repeating what is heard is ‘echolalia’. This repetition of the speech of others is a normal language development state for all young children. It is considered a milestone in child development. It’s also very common. Young children between the ages of 1 – 2 use repetitiveness to help instill the word firmly in their memories. This helps them experiment and develop language.

Ask a young toddler with limited verbal skills whether they want a cookie. Their response is often to repeat the word ‘cookie’, ‘ookie’ or make a similar sound indicating that they do want one. They will then often repeat that word or sound once they have got the cookie. They will repeat it often in different pitches and tones. This helps them to ingrain the word in their memories and master pronunciation. Repeating a word helps them take in new information each time. Also, as we all know, practice makes one perfect.

Older toddlers, between the ages of 2 to 3, also repeat the same words and phrases as part of their quest for learning. They also find it familiar and comforting to them to hear and repeat the same words and phrases.  However, imitated speech shouldn’t be their only form of communication. Children between the ages of 12 – 18 months should start using their own expressions and remarks as they explore, discover, make sense of and connect with the world around them.

Does it get better over time?

From the age of around three years old, a child will start to repeat words less often. By this age, they will begin to construct their own phrases, sentences, and style of speech. That said, it’s very common for young children to repeat lines from a book they are very familiar with. It may also be a line from a favorite movie, song, or television show. While this can drive a parent mad, it’s actually OK!

Bear in mind that these ages and stages are just a general indication and each child is unique. Each child develops at their own individual pace.  However, ‘echolalia’ (the term used for the repetition of the speech of others), whilst normal for very young children, generally indicates a delay in language skills if it continues past the age of three years. If you have any concerns regarding your child’s speech or development, it is best to have a specialist evaluate them.

Importance of skilled educators

Educators at childcare centers or early learning services are often the ones who pick up on a child’s developmental issues. This is particularly true if they have had lots of experience working with young children.  A skilled educator is not only an asset in identifying possible areas of concern, but is a valuable advantage in enabling children to be their best.

At the Nido Early School early education centers in Australia, educators are all highly trained and totally dedicated to their craft.  Language development is a key tenet of early education.  In their Reggio Emilia-inspired environments and approach, the Nido Early School team is totally committed to ‘walking the talk’.

Want to know more? Consult experts

Listening to your child repeat words and phrases may be a bit frustrating at times. Try and understand the ‘WHYs and WHEREFOREs’ of imitation and mimicking. This will be very helpful as you and your child navigate language development and communication. Do you know how quality early learning has a major impact on how a child fares throughout their lives? Do you want to find out more about milestones in child development? Your local Nido Early School will be happy to help. Get in touch through their website, www.nidoearlyschool.com.au, and make a plan to visit one of their many premium early education centers.

Note: This post is Sponsored by Nido Early School