Verbal Routines
Verbal routines are a powerful and often underestimated tool for encouraging language development and helping children learn their first words—or expand the words they already use. These predictable phrases and patterns give children repeated, meaningful exposure to language in a way that feels fun, safe, and easy to join.
“Ready… set… GO!” is a classic example of a verbal routine. Most adults can finish this phrase automatically because it’s so commonly used. That predictability is exactly what makes verbal routines so effective for young children. Over time, children begin to recognize the pattern, anticipate what comes next, and feel more confident jumping in.
In play-based and child-led speech therapy, verbal routines are often used to support early language, especially for children who are still learning how to initiate communication.
Why Verbal Routines Work
From a developmental perspective, verbal routines help children:
Learn the rhythm and structure of language
Build anticipation and understanding
Practice turn-taking in communication
Gain confidence using new or emerging words
Because the language stays the same across repeated experiences, children don’t have to guess what’s coming next. Instead, they can focus on listening, understanding, and eventually participating.
This makes verbal routines especially helpful for:
Toddlers and young children with emerging language
Children learning their first words
Children who benefit from predictability and repetition
How to Build a Verbal Routine at Home
Building a verbal routine takes time and consistency. Choose one phrase or song, and use it frequently for a week or two. This repetition helps ensure your child has enough exposure to understand the routine and what’s expected.
During this early stage, your child may not say anything—and that’s okay. Listening and watching are important parts of learning language.
Once the routine feels familiar, you can begin to pause before the final word and give your child an expectant look. This pause creates a natural opportunity for communication.
A helpful strategy is to:
Pause
Count to 5 silently in your head
Then complete the phrase if your child doesn’t fill it in
This keeps the interaction pressure-free while still inviting participation.
Turning Routines Into Daily Language Opportunities
Once introduced, verbal routines can be used again and again throughout the day. Each repetition reinforces understanding and gives your child another chance to join in when they’re ready.
Over time, these routines become predictable moments where your child may:
Fill in the last word
Use a sound or gesture
Smile or look at you expectantly
All of these are meaningful steps toward communication.
Examples of Verbal Routines to Use at Home
Here are some simple, natural verbal routines you can try during everyday activities:
Ready, set… GO!
Use during play, movement games, or when going from one place to another.
Time to… open!
Great for opening doors, boxes, containers, or even your arms for a big hug.
Here I… come!
Perfect for chase games, hide-and-seek, or gentle tickling routines.
Let’s get some… more!
Use when adding blocks to a tower, scooping food, cooking, or during meals.
Pick it… up / Pick me up!
Helpful when picking up toys, objects, or your child.
A Gentle Reminder
If your child doesn’t say the word right away, that doesn’t mean the routine isn’t working. Language development takes time, and participation can show up in many ways before words do.
By keeping verbal routines playful, predictable, and pressure-free, you’re creating meaningful opportunities for language growth—right within your everyday routines.
