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OWL.movWhy OWL?
Why OWL?
OWLing is an important strategy to use when beginning to follow your child's lead.
By OWLing, parents can:
Open up opportunities for their child to communicate.
Gain a better understanding of what strategy to use next in helping their child develop language skills.
See what is truly motivating and interesting for their child.
Respond appropriately to their child's initiations.
Observe
Observe
Pay close attention to what your child does or says.
Are they initiating a conversation with you through words, facial expressions or gestures?
Are they participating in an activity or routine that is interesting or motivating to them?
Wait
Wait
Give your child time and space to respond, initiate an interaction with you, or show you their interests!
Wait 5-10 seconds.
Stay face-to-face or close to your child.
Waiting = letting the child lead.
Listen
Listen
Listen to your child so that you can respond appropriately.
Respond on topic. This lets your child know that you are present and focused on them.
Listening and being responsive lets the child know that what they have to say is important to you.
The OWL acronym and strategy is provided by The Hanen Centre
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