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Point and Name Walk

On a slow walk, parent follows the toddler's pointing and names whatever they notice, expanding vocabulary in the child's lead.

Cartoon illustration of a parent and child outdoors doing Point and Name Walk.
  • Age12 months to 2 years
  • Time5 to 15 minutes
  • EnergyModerate
  • CostFree
  • WhereOutdoors
  • PrepNone

On an unhurried walk, you follow your toddler's pointing finger and name whatever catches their eye, letting their curiosity set the pace and grow their words.

How to do it

  1. Head out on a short, slow walk with no destination in mind.
  2. Watch for what your toddler looks at, points to, or stops for.
  3. Name that thing clearly and simply, then add one describing word if it feels natural.
  4. Pause and give them time to point again or repeat a sound back to you.
  5. Follow their lead the whole way, letting them set how far and how fast you go.

Make it yours

Younger (12-15mo): Name single objects with no extra words and keep it very short. Older (2-3y): Add a simple question like where is the next one, and let them lead you to it. Siblings: An older child can help point things out for the toddler to name

Try this with your child.

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