Using symbols to develop language skills
I often get asked by parents whether they should use pictures to help their child’s communication, there seems to be a concern that if they use pictures their child won’t speak. I reassure parents that yes do use symbols to support your child’s communication as it won’t hinder their language development and in actual fact it will help it. This is such an important message for parents and educational settings and it is often very misunderstood. Still not sold? Here is some research to tell you more about how and why it really does help…
The study "Learning Model of Picture Symbols in Improving Language Skills in Early Children" by J. I. Dengah and J. I. Dengah, conducted in 2019, explores the effectiveness of using picture symbols to enhance language skills among early childhood learners. The researchers implemented an action research method over two cycles, utilizing picture symbols as a medium for language development in young children.
Key findings from the study include:
- **Improvement in Language Skills**: The use of picture symbols significantly improved the children's language outcomes across both cycles of the intervention. The children showed increased learning outcomes and developed better language skills as the study progressed.
- **Engagement and Activeness**: The intervention demonstrated a high level of engagement among the children, with 100% of the participants actively involved. This high engagement was crucial in facilitating the observed improvements in language skills.
- **Effectiveness of the Symbol Method**: The study concluded that the symbol method is an effective tool for improving language skills in early childhood. It supports the development of listening and comprehension skills through interactive and visually stimulating learning materials.
Overall, the study provides evidence that integrating picture symbols into early childhood education can be a beneficial strategy for enhancing language development, especially in listening and comprehension skills. You can access more details of the study here: [(Dengah & Dengah, 2019)]
