When Words Are Hard: Toddler Communication Support Checklist

This printable checklist gives teachers respectful, in-the-moment ways to support a toddler whose words are difficult, while recognizing gestures, pointing, facial expressions, sounds, pictures, and words as communication. Use it to choose one or two strategies, such as pausing to observe, allowing unhurried response time, offering visible choices, and acknowledging the child’s message without requiring imitation. Keep it nearby during everyday routines and interactions when a child needs extra time or alternative ways to communicate. The cover shows one checklist page; the PDF page count was not provided.