Infant language stimulation: a mixed-methods study of low-income families’ preference for and use of ten strategies

Abstract

ABSTRACT Children who receive copious amounts of language stimulation from caring adults are likely to develop strong language skills, whereas children who receive limited language stimulation may experience delays. Little is known about the language stimulation strategies that families prefer to use. This mixed-methods study investigated families’ preferences for, and use of, 10 specific language promotion strategies. Twenty-four families of infants slated to enter high-poverty schools or receiving Medicaid in the United States participated in a programme called Strong Beginnings for Babies. Three coaches worked with families in small group sessions focused on the strategies. Coach reports and parent ratings indicated there were strategies for which families expressed strongest preference, especially those involving music or chatting with their child. Furthermore, families used these strategies most often. Finally, coaches reported much evidence of family members talking, singing, and reading to their babies, even when a specific strategy of focus was not named.