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Cutting out the baby talk may help prepare young kids better for the challenges of school.
Hi, I'm Dr. Cindy Haines, host of HealthDay TV.
According to new research from the Netherlands, adults who treat children ages 3 to 6 as conversation partners may help the kids better learn the language skills they'll need in grade school.
The language that teachers expect from students is called "academic language." It allows them to understand directions and express their ideas, according to the study author. This language involves complex sentences and abstract or difficult words.
The American Academy of Pediatrics urges parents to tell their kids stories, read books to them, and have two-way conversations that allow the kids to practice speaking. The organization also urges parents to limit television for young children, since it cuts down on the time for these conversations.
I'm Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV, with the news that doctors are reading; health news that matters to you.
