Social Pragmatic Language
Pragmatic language is how children use language in a social setting. According to the American Speech-Language Hearing Association, social language encompasses three main areas:
Using language for different reasons, such as:
Greeting. Saying "hello" or "goodbye."
Informing. "I'm going to get a cookie."
Demanding. "Give me a cookie right now."
Promising. "I'm going to get you a cookie."
Requesting. "I want a cookie, please."
Changing language for the listener or situation, such as:
Talking differently to a baby than to an adult.
Giving more information to someone who does not know the topic. Knowing to skip some details when someone already knows the topic.
Talking differently in a classroom than on a playground.
Following rules for conversations and storytelling, such as:
Taking turns when you talk.
Letting others know the topic when you start talking.
Staying on topic.
Trying another way of saying what you mean when someone did not understand you.
Using gestures and body language, like pointing or shrugging.
Knowing how close to stand to someone when talking.
Using facial expressions and eye contact.
The following are links to free resources to work on your child's social, or pragmatic, language skills:
