Your toddler’s world is bursting with new sounds, ideas, and discoveries - and every little word helps them make sense of it all. From naming colours at breakfast to chatting about the clouds on the way to the car, these everyday moments are filled with learning potential.
At Papilio Early Learning, we believe that some of the most powerful lessons happen in the simple, ordinary parts of your day. That’s why our educators support language development not with flashcards or drills - but with warm, meaningful conversation.
Here’s how you can support your toddler’s language growth at home - and how we help them thrive using a research-backed approach designed for real life.
What’s the Abecedarian 3a Approach and Why Does It Matter?
At Papilio, our Lifelong Learning Curriculum includes the Abecedarian 3a approach - a globally recognised language program built around real conversations between adults and children.
It focuses on three key strategies:
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Language Priority - making conversation part of every moment, from nappy changes to lunchtime
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Conversational Reading - reading with children, not just to them
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Learning Games - using playful, responsive interactions to spark communication
This method doesn’t require extra time or fancy tools. It’s grounded in what you’re already doing - just with a bit more intention.
5 Simple Ways to Build Language Through Everyday Life
Busy parents - we see you. Between childcare drop-offs, work, laundry, and dinner prep, you’re already doing a million things. The good news? You don’t need to carve out more time. Just make the most of the moments you already have.
Try these easy, real-life tips:
1. Narrate What You’re Doing
Talk through everyday tasks:
"We’re putting the socks on - one blue, one red! Let’s find your shoes next."
This helps toddlers link words to actions in a fun, practical way.
2. Pause and Wait
Give your child a moment to respond, even if it’s with a gesture or sound. That extra pause shows you’re listening - and gives them space to try new words.
3. Expand on Their Words
If they say “cat,” you might say:
"Yes, the fluffy black cat is stretching in the sun. Can you see its tail?"
This helps build vocabulary and introduces new sentence structures.
4. Follow Their Curiosity
When your toddler points at something, talk about it:
"You spotted the bus! It’s stopping to pick up the people. Can you hear it beep?"
5. Make Reading a Conversation
Instead of rushing through a story, slow down and ask questions:
"What do you think the bear is looking for? Can you find the fish?"
We use this exact approach at Papilio through Conversational Reading - because storytime should be a connection, not a performance.
What This Looks Like at Papilio
At every Papilio centre, our toddler rooms are buzzing with conversation. From morning hellos to messy play to reflective quiet time, our educators are there - tuning in, responding, and helping little voices grow stronger.
The Abecedarian 3a approach isn’t something we do on top of our day - it’s woven into everything. Through warm, responsive interactions, we help children feel safe, confident, and excited to communicate.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Want to see how we help toddlers find their voice every day at Papilio?
👉 Find a Papilio centre near you
Because every little word leads to big discoveries - and you’re your child’s favourite teacher.
What will you and your toddler talk about today?