We need to put to rest the old saying, "Children should be seen and not heard." Research shows beyond question that it is through having many opportunities to talk as well as to listen to teachers and peers that children gain language skills so valuable for their success in reading and writing.

It is important for young children to be able to:

• Listen carefully for different purposes, such as to get information or for enjoyment.
• Use spoken language for a variety of purposes.
• Follow and give simple directions and instructions.
• Ask and answer questions.
• Use appropriate volume and speed when they speak.
• Participate in discussions and follow the rules of polite conversation, such as staying on a topic and taking turns.
• Use language to express and describe their feelings and ideas.

It is important for teachers to:

• Ask open-ended questions that invite children to expand upon their answers.
• Present new words to children to expand their vocabularies.
• Respond to questions and let children take the conversational lead.
• Respond to children's questions and let them build their language skills.

Here are some things that you can do to help develop and expand your children's listening and speaking skills:

• Engage children in conversation throughout the day.

• When reading aloud to the children, encourage them to predict what will happen in the story, to comment on the story, and to make connections between the story and their personal experiences.

• Play games that will focus children's attention on the importance of listening carefully.

• Gently reinforce the rules of good listening and speaking throughout the day.

• Capitalize on routine opportunities to have the children follow or give directions.