Three “Small Talk” Tips for Early Literacy!
The big kids are back at school learning, so why not our little ones? Talking to your baby or toddler, and exposing them to language early, is one of the strongest predictors of brain development. The family wellbeing team with ISU Extension and Outreach in Polk County will once again offer another session of Small Talk – a free virtual early literacy program for parents with infants or toddlers. Participants will learn techniques to improve early language development.
The family well-being team offers a preview of the Small Talk program by providing three tips to incorporate early literacy in your day-to-day.
Interested in learning more early language tips? Register for the fall session of Small Talk. Virtual sessions will be held on Thursdays starting September 12 in both Spanish and English. Spanish sessions run from 10-11 a.m. and English sessions from 8:00-9:00 p.m. Participants will receive a free board book each week and a graduation gift. There are only a handful of openings left so register before September 5!
Small Talk uses patented “talk pedometer” technology to measure a child’s language development. 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. Essentially, parents learn the importance of interactive talk and how to increase this type of conversation with very young children.
To register for the English class, visit https://go.iastate.edu/UNKSNI and to register for the Spanish class text Rosa Gonzalez at (515) 490-2298. For general information or questions about Small Talk call or text Cassie Odland, family wellbeing educator, 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 community. For 2024 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 a part of a 99-county campus backed by research to serve all Iowans to create a strong Iowa.
