5 Simple Play-Based Activities to Encourage Communication at Home
Using connection, anticipation, and playful pauses to build communication naturally
Supporting your child’s communication doesn’t always require structured lessons or flashcards. Some of the most powerful communication moments happen during play — especially when the adult is tuned in, following the child’s lead, and creating just the right amount of anticipation.
When we use intentional pauses, slow down our responses, and create little moments where the child can expect something fun to happen, we make space for all kinds of communication: gestures, facial expressions, sounds, words, signs, or AAC. Best of all, it feels like play, not work.
It’s important to remember that intentional pauses should be brief, playful, and never require a child to respond. The pause simply opens a door for communication — the child decides whether to step through it.
Below are five simple, fun, child-led activities to support communication at home.
1. Bubble Play (The Magic Pause!)
Bubbles are a great tool for encouraging communication because they’re quick, motivating, and full of anticipation.
How to do it:
– Blow a stream of bubbles, then pause.
– Hold up the wand and look expectantly at your child.
– Wait a moment to give them space to communicate in any way they choose.
Why it works:
The pause builds excitement and gives the child a natural opportunity to communicate without pressure. The joy of “more bubbles!” becomes the reward.
2. Fast and Slow Drumming
Drums — or pots, pans, and boxes — make play fun and rhythmic.
How to do it:
– Drum quickly, then slowly.
– Stop suddenly and pause.
– Wait for your child to signal they want more before continuing the rhythm.
Why it works:
Predictable patterns help children anticipate what comes next. Pausing gives them a moment to communicate that they’re ready for more.
3. Peek-a-Boo With a Twist
Peek-a-boo naturally builds anticipation and encourages communication through joyful surprises.
How to do it:
– Hide behind your hands or a blanket.
– Pop out with enthusiasm: “Peek-a-boo!”
– Next time, hide and pause slightly longer than usual.
– Watch for your child’s reactions: leaning in, smiling, reaching, vocalizing, or pulling the blanket down.
Why it works:
The longer pause creates suspense and gives the child a chance to communicate before you reveal yourself.
4. “Ready… Set…” Race Game
This works with toy cars, balls, rolling toys, or even running.
How to do it:
– Hold the toy and say, “Ready… set…”
– Pause and wait.
– When your child communicates in any way, follow through with “Go!” and release the toy.
Why it works:
Children love predictable sequences. The pause makes the moment exciting and encourages them to fill in the missing piece.
5. Surprise Box or Bag
Use a small box or bag filled with exciting items like mini toys, scarves, sensory objects, or family favorites.
How to do it:
– Show the closed bag or box.
– Open it slowly and pause before revealing what’s inside.
– Let your child peek and show interest before pulling out an item.
Why it works:
The element of surprise keeps children curious. Each pause creates an opportunity for them to communicate their excitement or interest.
Why Pauses and Anticipation Matter
Intentional pauses and playful anticipation help communication grow by:
– Giving children extra processing time
– Offering natural opportunities to initiate communication
– Reducing pressure and increasing connection
– Supporting all forms of communication
– Helping learning feel joyful and child-led
These pauses should always be gentle and brief — never demanding or requiring a response. The goal is to offer an opportunity, not an expectation.
Tips for Encouraging Communication Through Play
– Follow your child’s lead and build on what they enjoy.
– Keep pauses fun and pressure-free.
– Celebrate all communication — looks, gestures, sounds, words, signs, or AAC.
– Keep interactions short, joyful, and responsive.
– Let your child choose when to start or stop an activity.
– Prioritize connection over correction.