Small Talk Builds Babies’ Brains – Free Virtual Course for Parents with Infants or Toddlers
School is underway for many of Iowa’s children, and Iowa State University (ISU) Extension and Outreach in Polk County will make sure that the youngest residents in Polk County get an opportunity to learn, too! Small Talk is a free virtual program for parents with infants or toddlers and teaches techniques to improve early language development. This ten-week series will be held on Thursdays starting September 28 from 8:00-9:00 p.m. Participants will receive a free board book each week, however, registration is required by September 21.
“Research shows that babies respond to our voice and conversations right from birth. The Small Talk program helps parents and caregivers understand the importance of incorporating regular talk to their baby from the start,” Cassie Odland, family wellbeing and nutrition educator for ISU Extension in Polk County said.
About Small Talk
The ten-week virtual series uses technology to help reduce the “word gap” in infants and toddlers. During Small Talk sessions, parents learn the importance of interactive talk and how to increase this type of conversation with very young children. Participants will use patented “talk pedometer” technology to measure their child’s language environment. Families then receive personalized, actionable feedback reports based on this technology, explore the data, and discuss strategies to increase the quality and quantity of talk at home.
“By the end of the program we hope that parents are equipped with fun and practical tools and techniques so they can continue to lay the foundation of learning and literacy with their child,” Odland said.
For more information about Small Talk call or text Cassie at (515) 414-9865 or e-mail her at odlandc@iastate.edu.
About Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Polk County
For over 100 years, ISU Extension and Outreach in Polk County has served its residents by connecting them to research and resources developed by Iowa State University. Knowledge and programs offered through the ISU Extension Polk County office have been specifically tailored to represent, enhance, and meet the needs of Polk County residents and the community. For 2022 ISU Extension in Polk County will focus on local issues including K-12 youth outreach; family and food; and agriculture and the environment. ISU Extension and Outreach in Polk County is part of a 99-county campus backed by research to serve all Iowans to create a strong Iowa.
